Daniel Benin interacting with journalists
China Fujian Fishing Ghana Limited, one of the leading fish farming companies in Ghana, has called on the government to take urgent steps to curb the persistent theft, vandalism and security threats facing the company in recent times.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday at Shai Hills in Accra, the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the company, Daniel Benin, said the company which operates over 2,000 cages for fish breeding, a hatchery, a nursery pond, a fish feed factory, producing an estimated 15,000 tons of fish and 40,000 tons of feed annually has lost a substantial amount of money due to the attacks.
He said in November, and December 2024, a combined 114 of the company’s nets were cut by unknown perpetrators while the company’s CCTV footage also captured a group of individuals on January 28, 2025, who also cut the nets that were used to protect the fish.
The PRO stated that another attack on the company resulted in the destruction of 22 nets worth millions of cedis.
Mr. Benin also alleged that on February 3, 2025, security officers who attempted to apprehend one of the suspects were pelted with stones, damaging the company’s CCTV cameras.
He said in spite of all its contribution to the local economy, employing over 600 individuals and contributing to community development through training programmes, educational visits, and sustainable fishing initiatives, operations has been under severe threats.
According to him, a reduction in production due to the attacks on the company would negatively impact access to protein-rich food, particularly for vulnerable populations given the company’s crucial role in Ghana’s food security in the provision of affordable, high-quality fish to local markets.
He stated that the impact of these thefts extends beyond financial losses, citing instances where employees have reported increased anxiety and fear.
He said, “The biggest challenge facing China Fujian Fishing Ghana Limited is the rampant theft and destruction of its fishing infrastructure. Organised groups, often operating under the cover of darkness, repeatedly raiding the farm, stealing fish and vandalising nets and equipment.”
“The company is appealing to the government for enhanced security measures, deployment of additional security personnel to protect the farm’s assets and workforce,” he stated.
Mr. Benin also called for community collaboration and engagement with local leaders and residents to find lasting solutions to prevent such negative practices against the company and its employees.
He said the situation sends a strong signal to potential investors, considering how a major investor in aquaculture faces persistent security threats with little intervention.
The PRO further indicated that without urgent action, especially by government, the ongoing attacks could force them to shut down operations, leading to devastating economic consequences for workers.
“We also want stronger legal framework, introduction and enforcement of stringent laws against fish farm theft and property destruction,” he stated.
“Investigation and prosecution by law enforcement agencies to identify, arrest, and prosecute perpetrators and their collaborators,” he added.
By Ebenezer K. Amponsah