The Ghana Navy, together with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the European Union, is stepping up efforts to combat maritime crime through targeted capacity-building under Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS 2026.
The initiative forms part of the “Enhancing Maritime Security in Africa – Safe Seas for Africa” project being implemented across the Gulf of Guinea.
As part of the programme, a two-day Tabletop and Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Exercise opened at the Alisa Hotel, Tema, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026.
The training brought together experts from the Attorney-General’s Department, Narcotics Control Commission, Fisheries Commission, Marine Police, and INTERPOL.
The exercise aims to sharpen inter-agency coordination and equip personnel to investigate and prosecute sea-based threats including piracy, illegal fishing, and trafficking.
Acting Director of Naval Legal Affairs, Commander Ruby Ann Renner, said operational successes at sea must be matched by strong evidentiary procedures to secure convictions.
She explained that the exercise will end with a Moot Court, where participants’ handling of evidence will be tested under judicial scrutiny to reinforce professionalism, accuracy, and adherence to legal standards.
Olude Ademola, Criminal Intelligence Officer at the INTERPOL Maritime Security Initiative, said the tabletop session prepares officers for practical field activities at sea.
He noted the longstanding collaboration between INTERPOL and UNODC in delivering such exercises to improve intelligence-sharing and coordination among agencies.
Chinazo Chikeziri, Maritime Law Enforcement Expert at UNODC’s Global Maritime Crime Programme, said the simulation scenarios are designed to improve preparedness, strengthen communication, and build a unified approach to tackling maritime crime.
Organizers say the initiative will refine strategies, fortify legal frameworks, and build inter-agency coordination to ensure safer seas for economic growth. It also reaffirms the Ghana Armed Forces’ role in promoting regional maritime stability.
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Source:
opemsuo.com