Western Region: Harbour master reports significant decline in stowaway cases at Takoradi Port

Managers at Takoradi Harbour have announced a notable decrease in stowaway incidents, attributing this success to strict adherence to the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) Code and other maritime standards.

This improvement has made the port increasingly appealing to shipping lines.

During the harbour’s annual ISPS security systems drill, which involved all state security agencies, Harbour Master Captain Daniel Quartey highlighted that stowaway cases have become nearly non-existent due to rigorous enforcement of security protocols.

“Some individuals have successfully stowed away in the past, but now we are cracking down. Takoradi has mainly functioned as an export port, with numerous vessels transporting bauxite and manganese,” he explained.

Captain Quartey noted that the addition of the region’s premier liquid bulk terminal has also increased activity at the port, leading to heightened security measures.

“We are now doing both imports and exports. While there is always the possibility of stowaways, we are on high alert,” he said.

He emphasized that every ship in port is assigned a security guard, and a thorough search procedure known as “rummaging” is conducted before departure. This involves searching the vessel to ensure no unauthorized individuals are onboard.

While acknowledging the significant reduction in incidents, Captain Quartey stressed that the issue has not been entirely resolved.

“It has gone tremendously down, but we have not eliminated the problem completely. We continue to engage with stakeholders to raise awareness. Those we apprehend are handed over to the marine police for prosecution,” he stated.

Reporting by Isaac Hughes in the Western Region