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April 13, 2026
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Sammi Awuku files RTI request into Sankofa vessel linked to alleged drug shipment

Money
Policy

Key Points

  • MP Sammi Awuku has filed a Right to Information (RTI) request with the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA).
  • The request seeks detailed information regarding the M/V Sankofa vessel, which was allegedly detained in Ghana for regulatory breaches.
  • The vessel was later allowed to depart under unclear circumstances and subsequently intercepted in Senegal for drug trafficking.
  • Awuku's request aims to clarify the vessel's movements, any sanctions or waivers, and the rectification of identified deficiencies, citing public interest and Ghana's maritime reputation.
  • The GMA has expressed its readiness to cooperate with Parliament, stressing its commitment to transparency and accountability in safeguarding Ghana's maritime domain.

Why This Matters

This incident raises serious questions about the effectiveness of Ghana's maritime security, enforcement procedures, and its commitment to combating international drug trafficking. Failure to transparently address these issues could severely damage Ghana's international reputation, potentially leading to increased scrutiny and impacting its standing in global maritime trade and security partnerships. It underscores the critical need for accountability within state institutions to uphold national security and integrity.

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