The Ghana Navy has intensified its fight against illegal fuel bunkering in the Volta Region, seizing large quantities of fuel and intercepting specially modified canoes used for smuggling operations along the coast.
In an intelligence led operation on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, naval personnel from the Naval Base at Nutekpor carried out coordinated raids along the Abeliakorpe and Atokukorpe landing beaches in Aflao. The operation, which lasted from early morning until early afternoon, targeted suspected stash houses and makeshift structures linked to illegal fuel activities.
The raid led to the seizure of 162 fuel filled 25 litre gallons and 32 fuel filled 200 litre barrels, believed to have been prepared for illegal distribution.
In a related operation two days later, on Thursday, 15 January 2026, the Navy intercepted seven specially built canoes locally known as dendes along the Keta-Denu-Aflao coastline. The canoes, suspected to be used for illicit bunkering at sea, were found to be carrying 378 empty barrels designed for fuel smuggling.
The suspects fled upon sighting the Navy ship, abandoning the canoes, which were seized and towed to the Tema Harbour for further investigation.
The Ghana Navy says it remains committed to securing the country’s maritime domain and protecting national security, marine biodiversity and the sustainability of Ghana’s blue economy. It has also urged coastal communities to assist by reporting suspicious activities along the shoreline.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Armed Forces to clamp down on illegal fuel trade and related criminal activities along Ghana’s coast.
