The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has successfully facilitated the repatriation of 12 stranded seafarers from the vessel MV Rahaf Moon, following a coordinated humanitarian and regulatory intervention.

The vessel, registered under the flag of St. Kitts & Nevis, was found in Ghanaian waters on 20 January 2026 after support from its owner, ATSE Global Shipping Company Limited, ceased.

“This left the crew of nine Indians, two Azerbaijanis, and one Turkish national in dire conditions, with restricted access to food and water and unpaid wages exceeding US$150,000,” the Authority stated.

In response, the GMA mobilised a broad coalition of stakeholders, including 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. Together, they provided emergency assistance such as food, water, fuel, and other essentials, while ensuring the vessel’s operational integrity.

The Authority noted that the intervention secured the recovery of four months of outstanding wages for the crew before their safe repatriation to their home countries on 23 July 2026.

It added that under international maritime law, seafarers’ wage claims remain protected and will continue to receive priority during the legal settlement of claims against the vessel.

Currently under GPHA custody, the vessel is undergoing legal processes toward a judicial sale, with remaining wage claims to be addressed through those proceedings.

Following the crew’s departure, the GMA directed the deployment of a qualified Ghanaian skeletal crew to maintain security and essential onboard operations.

“The Authority is also establishing a legal framework to manage proceeds from any future judicial sale, including settlement of approved expenses and maintenance-related claims,” it concluded.