The Chinese foreign ministry confirmed on Monday that all crew members of a Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel involved in a suspected piracy attack are safe. The incident occurred on March 27 when seven armed assailants boarded the ship in Ghanaian waters, leading to the disappearance of three Chinese nationals who are believed to have been kidnapped. Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun provided reassurance during a regular press conference, stating, “All crew members are currently safe.”
He elaborated that the Chinese Embassy in Ghana promptly activated its emergency response protocols upon learning of the situation and has been in close communication with authorities in Ghana. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about piracy and maritime security in West African waters, an area that has seen an increase in such violent attacks in recent years. The Ghanaian military has been working to address piracy threats, but challenges remain in ensuring the safety of vessels operating in these waters.
The swift response from the Chinese Embassy indicates the importance of international cooperation in tackling maritime security issues. As concerns about piracy persist, the collaboration between nations will be crucial in safeguarding the lives of crew members and preventing future incidents.