Sammi Awuku to question GMA in Parliament over vessel linked to alleged drug trafficking

The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku, has announced plans to formally question the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) in Parliament regarding the handling of a vessel that later resurfaced in Senegal linked to alleged illicit drug trafficking.

Mr. Awuku, who serves as Vice Chairman of Parliament’s Committee on Public Administration and State Interests, said he will submit an official request for information to demand clarity on the circumstances under which the vessel, identified as MV Sankofa, was allowed to leave Ghanaian waters despite prior regulatory breaches.

“As Vice Chairman for Parliament’s Committee on Public Administration and State Interest, I intend to perform my duties to ensure these State Institutions deliver on their mandate while remaining committed to serving the Nation,” he stated.

He emphasized that his focus would be on accountability from relevant institutions, adding,

“Today I will be asking the right questions and will demand the right answers from those expected to perform their duties in the interest of Mother Ghana.”

According to Mr. Awuku, the MV Sankofa was arrested by the GMA in July 2025 while operating in Ghanaian waters under the administration of John Dramani Mahama. At the time of its arrest, the vessel allegedly violated several maritime regulations.

“At the time of her arrest, the vessel was flying under the flag of São Tomé. However, without any official records of how the GMA applied the sanctions prescribed by law for such breaches, the vessel was allowed to sail out of Ghana,” Mr. Awuku explained.

He expressed concern over subsequent developments, noting that the vessel had since been arrested in Senegal for allegedly transporting illicit drugs.

“In an interesting twist, this same vessel has been arrested in Senegal for allegedly transporting illicit drugs after it sailed from the shores of Ghana,” he added.

Mr. Awuku also highlighted inconsistencies regarding the vessel’s registration status. He revealed that email correspondence between authorities in Ghana and Senegal suggested uncertainty.

“In correspondence I have sighted, GMA denied that the vessel, despite flying under the flag of Ghana, is not registered in Ghana,” he stated.

The MP warned that the incident raises broader national security concerns, particularly given Ghana’s past association with international drug trafficking allegations.

“In the past, Ghana has suffered from allegations of being a haven for international illicit drug trade. Unfortunately, there is cause for concern that these allegations may be resurfacing sooner than later,” he said.

Mr. Awuku confirmed he will formally seek answers from the GMA on key issues, including:

When the vessel entered and exited Ghanaian waters.
Its first port of call while in Ghana.
The flag it sailed under on entry and departure.
Whether the vessel was prosecuted or fined, and if penalties were collected.

“I believe with the right answers we can proceed to the next set of issues surrounding this violation of our laws,” he stated.

The parliamentary inquiry is expected to provide clarity on the oversight lapses, reinforce maritime law enforcement, and safeguard Ghana’s national security and international reputation.