Ghana Police Service Establishes New Marine Police Unit to Enhance Coastal Security

On June 21, 2013, Ghana took a significant step toward enhancing its maritime security with the official inauguration of the Marine Police Unit (MPU) in Takoradi. The ceremony was led by Vice President Kwesi Amissah-Arthur, marking a pivotal moment in Ghana's efforts to protect its coastal and offshore resources. Originally established in April 2011 under the Ghana Police Service, the Marine Police Unit was created to safeguard Ghana’s maritime environment, especially in response to the country’s growing oil and gas industry. The discovery of offshore oil in Ghana raised concerns about maritime security, environmental protection, and the need for stricter enforcement of maritime laws. The MPU was tasked with policing offshore oil operations, preventing illegal fishing, and enforcing the Fisheries Act 2002 and the Fisheries Regulations 2011. By targeting offenses like illegal fishing and unregulated maritime activities, the unit played a crucial role in preserving marine biodiversity and protecting the economic interests tied to Ghana’s fisheries and energy sectors. To effectively carry out its operations, the unit was equipped with two 9-meter patrol boats (P1 and P2) and four 6.3-meter rigid inflatable boats (P3, P4, P5, and P6), enabling it to patrol Ghana’s coastal waters and offshore installations. Positioned in Takoradi, the hub of Ghana’s oil industry, the MPU was strategically placed to address security challenges in the Western Region, where most offshore oil activities occur. #Mooflife #MomentOfLife #GhanaPoliceService #MarinePoliceUnit #MaritimeSecurity #IllegalFishing #Piracy