Elmina Fishing Vessel Incident: All 23 Crew Members Safe
The Elmina fishing vessel incident occurred on Wednesday, August 20, when the inshore vessel ‘Joy George’ struck a rock near the shores of Elmina Castle around 12:00 PM. The vessel, which has an inbuilt engine and registration number CR-338-EL, is locally owned. Fortunately, all 23 crew members on board escaped unharmed.
Immediately, community members, local fishermen, and the Fisheries Commission’s technical team responded to ensure the crew’s safety. They quickly towed the vessel to a secure location at the Brake Waters, adjacent to the historic Elmina Castle.
Initial assessments indicate the vessel likely hit the rock while navigating close to shore during routine operations. The Fisheries Commission plans to tow it ashore by Thursday, August 21, for further inspection. Officials will investigate the cause thoroughly and implement measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.
Moreover, the Fisheries Commission emphasized safety guidelines for all inshore vessels. They urged operators to maintain vigilance, especially when navigating near shallow waters. Local fishermen have been asked to report potential hazards promptly, ensuring maritime safety in the area.
Residents and stakeholders praised the quick response, highlighting the importance of coordinated community and authority action. “We are relieved that no one was injured, and the crew is safe. The prompt support from the Fisheries Commission and local fishermen prevented further complications,” said a local community leader.
The Elmina fishing vessel incident serves as a reminder of the hazards faced by inshore operators and the critical role of timely response. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and will issue safety recommendations once investigations conclude.
