The Ghana Navy has apprehended 10 suspected stowaways, all believed to be Nigerian nationals, who were found aboard the Panamanian-flagged merchant ship, Grand Venus.
The arrests followed a distress call received on Friday, October 31, 2025, leading to a swift naval operation about eight nautical miles southeast of Tema.
According to a statement from naval officials, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects had illegally boarded the vessel while it was docked at the Lagos Port in Nigeria, before it set sail for Ghana.
During the voyage, the crew reportedly discovered the hidden individuals and immediately alerted Ghanaian maritime authorities, prompting a rapid response team from the Ghana Navy to intercept the vessel.
The naval patrol unit successfully secured the ship and ensured the safety of both crew and cargo before escorting it to the Tema Main Harbour.
Upon arrival, the stowaways were handed over to the Port Control, the Ghana Immigration Service, and the Marine Police for further questioning and investigations.
Naval authorities emphasized that the incident highlights the Navy’s continued vigilance in safeguarding Ghana’s territorial waters against illegal maritime activities such as stowaway operations, smuggling, and piracy.
Officials added that further details will be shared as investigations progress, reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to maritime law enforcement and regional security cooperation.
