Vice Chairman of Parliament’s Committee on Public Administration and State Interest, Sammi Awuku, has formally requested information from the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) regarding the handling of the vessel M/V Sankofa.
In a letter submitted under the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), Mr. Awuku highlighted 17 specific questions relating to the vessel’s entry, detention, departure, and subsequent interception in Senegal for alleged involvement in illicit drug transportation.
The MP noted that the vessel was reportedly detained in Ghana for regulatory breaches but later permitted to leave under unclear circumstances.
He emphasized that the matter raises concerns about maritime safety, regulatory compliance, and national security.
Among the issues raised, Mr. Awuku requested details on: The date of entry and departure of M/V Sankofa from Ghana’s territorial waters, the national flag under which the vessel entered and departed, and whether the vessel was arrested or detained, and the regulatory breaches involved.
Also included are any sanctions, fines, or penalties imposed, and whether they were paid or waived, documentation of remedial steps taken, and whether deficiencies identified during inspection were rectified.
Mr. Awuku stressed that the request was made in the public interest to ensure accountability in the enforcement of Ghana’s maritime laws and to safeguard the country’s reputation and security.
“I would be grateful if this information could be provided within the statutory time frame prescribed under Act 989. Should any clarification be required, I remain available to assist,” he said.
