Pirate Attack on Ghanaian Vessel: Missing Crew Members Found Safe

After a suspected pirate attack on the Ghanaian vessel MENGXIN1, three missing Chinese crew members were confirmed safe, as reported by China’s foreign ministry. The incident involved armed assailants boarding the ship and taking crew members’ phones while holding them for several hours. Ghana’s navy has launched an investigation into the attack, which highlights persistent piracy challenges in the region.

Three Chinese crew members who had gone missing following a suspected pirate attack on the Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel MENGXIN1 have been confirmed safe, as stated by China’s foreign ministry. Specifics regarding their recovery remain undisclosed.

The incident occurred on Thursday evening when seven armed assailants boarded the vessel and fired warning shots. Reports from Ghana’s armed forces indicate that the attackers held the crew captive on deck for approximately three hours while confiscating their phones. Several crew members successfully evaded capture during the assault.

Upon the assailants’ departure, it was discovered that the ship’s captain, chief mate, and chief engineer were unaccounted for. Subsequently, the vessel reached Tema Fishing Harbour, prompting an investigation by Ghana’s navy into what has been classified as a suspected piracy event.

While the Chinese embassy in Accra refrained from commenting, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry reiterated that they would collaborate with Ghana for the safety of their nationals and institutions in the region. Piracy remains a significant risk in the Gulf of Guinea, where commercial and fishing vessels, particularly those under Ghanaian flags, are frequently targeted by pirates.

Ghanaian authorities continue to investigate this alarming incident, which highlights ongoing maritime security challenges in the region.

In summary, the confirmed safety of three Chinese crew members following the suspected pirate attack on the MENGXIN1 vessel underscores the pressing security concerns in the Gulf of Guinea. The Ghanaian navy’s ongoing investigation illustrates the commitment to tackling piracy, a recurrent threat affecting a significant number of vessels operating in this maritime area.

Original Source: www.marineinsight.com