Ghana Maritime Authority facilitates repatriation of 12 stranded seafarers

The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has facilitated the repatriation of 12 seafarers who were stranded aboard the MV Rahaf Moon after their employer stopped providing support.

The seafarers, comprising nine Indians, two Azerbaijanis and one Turkish national, had been facing difficult conditions, including limited access to food and fresh water.

They were also owed more than US$150,000 in wages after the vessel was identified in Ghanaian waters on January 20.

In a statement issued on Monday, August 10, the GMA said it coordinated with several local and international stakeholders to safeguard the welfare of the crew and facilitate their return home.

The Authority said emergency supplies, including food, water and fuel, were provided while efforts were made to keep the vessel safe and operational.

“The intervention also led to the recovery of four months of outstanding wages for the crew before their safe repatriation to their home countries on 23 July, 2026,” the GMA said.

The intervention involved the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), Point 3 Logistics, Boti Crew, the vessel’s Protection and Indemnity Club, legal representatives, the Indian High Commission and the Turkish Embassy in Ghana.

The MV Rahaf Moon, which is registered under the flag of St. Kitts & Nevis, was left in difficult circumstances after support from its owner, ATSE Global Shipping Company Limited, ceased.

The GMA said the vessel is currently under the custody of the GPHA and is undergoing legal processes towards a judicial sale.