The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has attributed the marine incident that occurred at the Elmina Fishing Harbour on August 18 to operator error, citing speeding and subsequent loss of control as the cause.

In a statement issued on Thursday, August 21, the Authority dismissed reports circulating on social media that eight people had died, stressing that no fatalities were recorded. It confirmed that all 27 crew members and fishers aboard were safe, as verified by the caretaker of the vessel, Edward Essien.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the canoe, shortly after departing the harbour, collided with a sea defence structure at the wharf entrance. All 27 crew members managed to swim safely to shore, with only minor bruises reported.

The damaged vessel later took on water and sank during a towing attempt by its owners, resulting in the loss of the fishing gear onboard. As of Thursday morning, August 21, the owners had engaged a crane to recover the wreck.

The GMA noted that investigations were ongoing and would focus on the cause of the collision, operator licensing, compliance with speed limits in harbour areas, and broader safety practices.

“The Ghana Maritime Authority treats all marine incidents with the utmost seriousness. While we are thankful that no lives were lost, we remain concerned about the spread of unverified reports that cause needless fear and distress,” the statement added.