The Eastern Naval Command of the Ghana Navy and the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) have stepped up joint operations targeting illegal fuel trading and bunkering activities on Ghana’s territorial waters.

The latest operations follow a series of exercises conducted this year against suspected fuel smugglers operating along the coast.

Between January 12 and 14, 2026, a joint operation involving the Eastern Naval Command, Naval Training Command and the Special Boats Squadron led to the seizure of seven dendes, an outboard motor, four gallons and 383 drums containing suspected crude oil.

Another operation carried out on March 11 at the Tema Fishing Harbour resulted in the seizure of one dende and eight 1,000-litre containers filled with suspected crude oil.

The operation was conducted by personnel from the Command Naval Intelligence and the Special Boats Squadron.

On March 27, a separate anti-narcotics operation also led to the confiscation of seven gallons of fuel and a canoe.

The Eastern Naval Command says several similar operations have been undertaken this year as part of efforts to address petroleum-related crimes on Ghana’s waters.

The suspected petroleum products have since been handed over to the NPA for investigations and further action.

On May 19, naval officers began destroying some of the seized boats at the Tema Fishing Harbour after removing them from the water in the presence of fisherfolk and members of the public.

Five boats have so far been destroyed, while others are expected to be dismantled or used for target practice at sea.

Speaking during an engagement with the NPA in Tema on Tuesday, May 26, the Flag Officer Commanding the Eastern Naval Command, Commodore Solomon Asiedu, said the exercise was aimed at discouraging illegal fuel operations.

“We believe this will serve as a strong deterrent to persons planning to engage in such illegal operations,” he said.

The Chief Executive Officer of the NPA, Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, said the Authority would continue working with security agencies, particularly the Navy, to tackle illegal petroleum activities on the country’s water bodies.

“The NPA has been working closely with the security agencies, especially the Navy, to reduce illegal petroleum activities on our water bodies. The aim is to serve as a deterrent to those engaged in these unlawful acts,” he stated.