Kidnapped Chinese Crew Members from Ghanaian Vessel Rescued in Nigeria – Full Story

 

In a dramatic cross-border operation, three Chinese crew members who were abducted by pirates from a Ghanaian fishing vessel, MV Menhin-1, have been successfully rescued in Nigeria, according to an official statement from the Ghana Police Service.

The details were disclosed during a press briefing on Tuesday at the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters in Accra, where COP Lydia Yaako Donkor, the Director-General of the CID, gave a comprehensive account of the incident.

The Attack on MV Menhin-1

According to the police, the attack occurred on March 27, 2025, around 7:30 PM (1930 hours) in Yenyano Waters, off the coast of Tema, Ghana. The pirates, armed with AK-47 rifles, launched the assault using wooden canoes powered by outboard motors.

“The attackers destroyed the vessel’s communication system before taking three Chinese crew members hostage,” said police.

Swift Multi-Agency Response

The following morning, on March 28, the Marine Police Command in Tema received a report of the abduction from the fishing company operating MV Menhin-1. An immediate investigation was launched, involving several agencies:

• Ghana Maritime Authority

• Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority

• National Investigation Bureau

• Ghana Navy

• Fisheries Observer
  
  
  

The Hostage Ordeal: Nigeria’s Delta Region

Investigations revealed that the kidnapped crew members had been blindfolded and transported by speedboats for over 24 hours to a remote, marshy area later identified as part of Nigeria’s Delta region.

From there, they were moved further on motorcycles and then on foot to a makeshift camp, where they were held at gunpoint for nearly a month.

They remained in captivity until April 25, when—under unclear circumstances—they were suddenly abandoned by their captors.

Rescue and Repatriation

After their release, the victims managed to reach a nearby village, where local residents assisted them in contacting the Chinese Embassy in Lagos.

The embassy confirmed their rescue on April 26 and facilitated their return to Ghana. They were handed over to authorities at the Kotoka International Airport on April 27.

A debriefing session was conducted the next day, April 28, at the Ghana Police Headquarters.

Health and Psychological Condition

Though the victims did not show visible signs of physical harm, police noted that they appeared deeply traumatised and had requested medical attention.

During the debriefing, the Inspector General of Police met with the victims and “expressed sympathy and support for their ordeal.”

Arrests and Ongoing Investigation

As of now, the police have arrested eight individuals in connection with the abduction. Those named include:

• Sueva Victor

• Kojo Akweli

• Eugene Chibuke

• Mwonam

• Zhao Lang Hao (Chinese cook)

• Zhao Hua (second engineer)

All suspects have been arraigned before the Tema District Court, and investigations are still ongoing.

Commendation of Joint Effort

The Ghana Police Service praised the swift and coordinated effort of all agencies involved in the rescue operation.

“Police commended all stakeholders involved in the multi-agency operation for their swift action and coordination that led to the rescue of the kidnapped crew members.”

This case highlights the critical importance of regional cooperation in combating maritime piracy and ensuring the safety of international seafarers in West African waters.