Ketu south: The Concerned Net Owners Association of Denu and Viepe Landing Beaches has threatened spiritual intervention if authorities fail to investigate and bring to justice those responsible for the burning and theft of fishing canoes along Viepe-Denu.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Association reported that 16 fishing canoes, along with generators, were set ablaze, while three additional canoes were stolen in incidents occurring between December 29, 2025, and January 25-26, 2026. The canoes were either anchored along the coast or actively used for fishing at the time.
The attacks, the Association said, had caused financial losses, emotional trauma, and hardship to affected fishermen and their families, whose livelihoods depend entirely on fishing. The acts were described as criminal and destructive, threatening peace, unity, and economic survival in the Denu and Viepe fishing communities.
The statement from the Association emphasized that these actions are not only criminal but also threaten the very foundation of their livelihood and the harmony that exists among fishing communities.
While the Association prefers peaceful and lawful means of seeking justice, it warned that traditional and spiritual measures may be invoked if state institutions fail to act decisively.
The group reiterated its commitment to peace, the rule of law, and cooperation with security agencies, appealing to the police, municipal authorities, and other institutions to treat the matter urgently to prevent escalation and restore confidence among fisherfolk.
It further urged community members to volunteer credible information that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators and help restore peace and security along the Viepe-Denu coastline.