News

The Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA) has issued a circular advising that the Port Facility Security Committee (PFSC) has recommended the introduction of mandatory canine searches for stowaways on vessels loading bauxite and manganese ore or simply berthed at Takoradi’s Dry Bulk and Liquid Bulk Terminals.  It is not entirely clear to us whether the circular refers to all Capesize vessels at Takoradi’s Dry Bulk and Liquid Bulk terminals or only those loading bauxite or manganese ore, but we believe from our discussions with the GPHA that it applies to all vessels at the Dry Bulk and Liquid Bulk terminals.

As these terminals are open to the sea, the PFSC considers them particularly vulnerable to stowaways who may attempt to board berthed vessels using small wooden canoes despite regular security patrols.

We understand that the port has already adopted the PFSC’s recommendation.

Where a canine search is required, the vessel’s agent will need to arrange for one of the port’s three approved canine stowaway search companies to carry out the search. The cost of the search will be payable together with the port dues.

Vessels which do not comply will be refused clearance.

At present, this measure is specific to Takoradi and does not apply in Tema, although it is possible that ship agents will recommend the use of dogs in stowaway searches to demonstrate that all possible measures have been taken by the vessel to detect stowaways prior to departure.

In case of doubt, vessels calling in Takoradi are advised to check with their local agent regarding the specific requirements applicable to their vessel and cargo.

As advised previously, vessels arriving in Ghana with non-Ghanaian stowaways on board face fines of USD 5,000.00 per stowaway from both the GPHA and Ghana Immigration Services, bringing potential fines to a total of USD 10,000.00 per stowaway exclusive of disembarkation and repatriation costs.

Information provided by Budd Ghana (budd.ghana@budd-pni.com)