Authorities at the Port of Takoradi say stowaway incidents have fallen dramatically in recent months, a development they attribute to the strict enforcement of the International Ship and Port Security (ISPS) Code and intensified security operations at the facility.

Speaking during the port’s annual ISPS security drill, an exercise that brings together all state security agencies, Harbour Master Captain Daniel Quartey said consistent vigilance has made stowaway attempts almost non-existent.

“Some individuals have successfully stowed away in the past, but now we are cracking down. Takoradi has mainly functioned as an export port, with numerous vessels transporting bauxite and manganese,” he said.

Captain Quartey noted that the commissioning of the Western Region’s first liquid bulk terminal has expanded the port’s operations and prompted even tighter security oversight.

“We are now doing both imports and exports. While there is always the possibility of stowaways, we are on high alert,” he added.

The Harbour Master explained that every vessel berthing at the port is assigned a security guard, with teams undertaking a mandatory “rummaging” process, a comprehensive search carried out before departure to ensure no unauthorised persons are hidden onboard.

Although the figures show a marked decline, Captain Quartey cautioned that the threat has not been entirely eradicated.

“It has gone tremendously down, but we have not eliminated the problem completely. We continue to engage with stakeholders to raise awareness. Those we apprehend are handed over to the marine police for prosecution,” he said..