GHANA NAVY STRENGTHENS MARITIME LAW ENFORCEMENT UNDER OBANGAME EXPRESS 2026

The Ghana Navy, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the European Union, is intensifying efforts to combat maritime crime through targeted capacity-building initiatives under Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS 2026. The initiative forms part of the “Enhancing Maritime Security in Africa – Safe Seas for Africa” project being implemented within the Gulf of Guinea.

In view of this, a two-day Tabletop and Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Exercise was launched at the Alisa Hotel, Tema, on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, uniting experts from the Attorney-General’s Department, Narcotics Control Commission, Fisheries Commission, Marine Police, and INTERPOL. The training sought to sharpen inter-agency coordination and equip personnel to investigate and prosecute sea-based threats like piracy, illegal fishing, and trafficking.

The Acting Director Naval Legal Affairs, Commander Ruby Ann Renner, underscored the importance of aligning maritime operations with legal processes. She noted that while operational successes at sea are critical, they must be supported by strong evidentiary procedures to ensure successful prosecution. She explained that the exercise will culminate in a Moot Court, where participants’ handling of evidence will be tested under judicial scrutiny, reinforcing the need for professionalism, accuracy, and adherence to legal standards.

The Criminal Intelligence Officer at INTERPOL Maritime Security Initiative, Olude Ademola, highlighted the longstanding collaboration between INTERPOL and the UNODC in delivering such exercises. He explained that the tabletop session served as preparation for practical field activities at sea, aimed at equipping law enforcement officers with the necessary skills to effectively respond to maritime-related incidents, while enhancing intelligence-sharing and coordination among agencies.

Maritime Law Enforcement Expert at UNODC’s Global Maritime Crime Programme, Chinazo Chikeziri, noted the exercise is designed to improve preparedness, strengthen communication, and build a unified approach to tackling maritime crime through realistic simulation scenarios.

The initiative builds inter-agency coordination, refines strategies, and fortifies legal frameworks, promising safer seas for economic growth. It also reaffirms Ghana Armed Forces’ leadership in regional maritime stability.

Source : Ghana Navy