Missing Ghanaian fisheries observer: Government accused of neglect

Government has been accused of showing lack of commitment in searching for one Emmanuel Essien, a fisheries observer, who went missing five months ago.

The missing fisheries observer was tasked on July 5, 2019, by the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development to observe a Chinese vessel.

He is said to be onboard the vessel, Meng Xin 15, when it left for fishing.

However, the vessel returned without this observer. The crew later reported that the observer was missing.

On Monday, November 25, Ghana National Canoe Fishermen Council (GNCFC) held a press conference demanding the whereabouts of the Ghanaian.

“This is a serious matter because fisheries observers are one of Ghana’s frontline defenders against illegal fishing,” Nana Joojo Solomon, an Executive Member of GNCFC, observed.

“Therefore, we demand that government exhibit adequate commitment in this matter.”

The Council wants government to institute an inquiry into the incident “to ensure that justice prevails”.

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