The Member of Parliament for Awutu Senya West, Gizella Tetteh Agbotui, has disclosed that discussions are underway to strengthen security arrangements for fishermen operating along the coast, following a recent pirate attack that left scores of fishermen traumatised.

Her comments come in the wake of the rescue of 71 fishermen who were reportedly attacked and robbed while returning from a fishing expedition in the early hours of Thursday, February 27.

The incident, which has raised fresh concerns about the safety of Ghanaian fishermen at sea, has prompted calls for improved maritime security and better coordination among relevant authorities.

According to reports, the fishermen were accosted by armed men at sea and dispossessed of their catch, outboard motors, fuel, and other valuables before being left stranded.

The incident has reignited fears among coastal communities about increasing vulnerability to attacks, particularly during late-night and early-morning fishing expeditions.

Speaking to Citi News, the Awutu Senya West lawmaker acknowledged inconsistencies in initial reports regarding the number of boats involved in the attack, stressing the need for accurate data collection and documentation within the fishing sector.

“At one point I heard there were eight boats, next time there were 13 and then I heard there were six boats so that got me a bit confused as to what exactly the numbers were. But eventually, just like how an airline would have a manifest, that is one of the things that at least every boat going out should have so that we will know who has gone out and how many people have gone on a particular boat.

“That information would also help. But I am sure this discussion would go to a higher level and definitely some of us would be consulted because this happened in our constituencies.”