Sammi Awuku raises red flags over handling of M/V Sankofa vessel

Member of Parliament for Akuapem North and Vice Chairman of Parliament’s Committee on Public Administration and State Interest, Sammi Awuku, has written to the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Maritime Authority seeking detailed information on the handling of the M/V Sankofa vessel.

In a letter dated April 13, 2026, and made available to GhanaWeb, the MP made the request under the Right to Information Act, 2019 (Act 989), citing recent reports that have raised serious concerns.

Sammi Awuku critiques President Mahama over 'side chick' comment

According to the letter, the concerns include allegations that the vessel was detained for regulatory breaches in Ghana but was later allowed to leave under unclear circumstances.

It is further reported that after departing Ghanaian waters, the vessel was intercepted in Senegal over alleged involvement in illicit drug transportation.

“Recent information regarding the handling of the vessel M/V Sankofa within Ghana’s territorial waters has raised concerns. The vessel was reportedly detained for regulatory breaches but subsequently permitted to depart under circumstances that remain unclear.

“It is further reported that after leaving Ghana’s shores, the same vessel was intercepted in Senegal in connection with the transportation of illicit drugs,” portions of the letter stated.

Awuku posed 17 specific questions grouped under three main areas of inquiry.

Under vessel entry and identification, he requested details on the date the M/V Sankofa entered Ghana’s territorial waters, its first port of call, the flag under which it entered and exited, and the date it departed Ghana’s waters.

On arrest and enforcement actions, he asked whether the vessel was arrested or detained by the Ghana Maritime Authority, the date of any such action, and the specific regulatory breaches that led to it.

Regarding sanctions, prosecution, and compliance, the MP sought clarification on whether any individuals or entities were prosecuted, whether sanctions were imposed, and if any fines or penalties were paid to the state, including dates and amounts involved.

He also requested information on whether any waiver of fines was granted, who authorised it, and the reasons for such a decision.

Additionally, he inquired whether any undertaking was signed with the vessel’s operators and whether all identified deficiencies during inspection were rectified, requesting supporting documents as evidence of compliance.

Awuku stressed that the request is in the public interest, aimed at ensuring accountability in maritime enforcement and safeguarding Ghana’s security and international reputation.

Maritime Authority breaks silence on Sammi Awuku’s cocaine ship accusation

“This request is 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,” he added.

MAG/VPO

Berekum Chelsea player dead after highway armed robbery attack - Report: