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

According to the statement released, the vessel, registered under the flag of St. Kitts and Nevis, was identified in Ghanaian waters on January 20, 2026 after support from its owner, ATSE Global Shipping Company Limited, ceased, leaving the crew in difficult conditions.

However revealed that the crew, made up of nine Indians, two Azerbaijanis, and one Turkish national, faced prolonged hardship, including restricted access to food and fresh water, with unpaid wages exceeding US$150,000.

In response, the GMA mobilised a broad network of stakeholders, including the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority (GPHA), the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), Point 3 Logistics and Boti Crew.

It also mentioned the vessel's Protection and Indemnity Club, legal representatives, the Indian High Commission, and the Turkish Embassy in Ghana, to safeguard the welfare of the seafarers and ensure compliance with international maritime obligations.

GMA noted that, through this collaboration, emergency assistance such as food, water, fuel and other essential supplies was provided, while arrangements were made to maintain the safety and operational integrity of the vessel.

It further expressed that the intervention also led to the recovery of four months of outstanding wages for the crew before their safe repatriation to their home countries on July 23, 2026.

In a statement cited 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.

"The MV Rahaf Moon, currently under the custody of the GPHA, is undergoing legal processes towards a judicial sale, with the 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," GMA assured.

However assured that the Authority is establishing a legal framework to manage proceeds from any future judicial sale of the vessel, including the settlement of approved expenses and maintenance-related claims.

"The successful resolution of the case highlights the GMA's commitment to seafarer welfare, effective stakeholder collaboration, and adherence to international maritime standards, reinforcing Ghana's reputation as a responsible maritime nation dedicated to protecting the rights and wellbeing of seafarers."