Three Chinese nationals who were suspected to have been kidnapped in a pirate attack off Ghana’s coast are now safe, China’s foreign ministry confirmed on Monday, March 31, 2025. However, no further details were provided on their recovery.

The incident occurred on Thursday, March 27, 2025, when a Ghanaian-registered fishing vessel, MENGXIN 1, was reportedly attacked by seven armed individuals. According to a statement from the Ghana Armed Forces, the attackers fired warning shots, causing several crew members to seek refuge in a secure area.

The armed group remained on board for approximately three hours, during which they assembled the crew on deck and seized their mobile phones. Once the assailants departed, the remaining crew members discovered that three of their colleagues were missing. The vessel has since been docked as investigations continue.

Piracy remains a significant threat in the Gulf of Guinea, a region known for maritime security challenges. Over the years, Chinese fishing vessels have frequently flown Ghanaian flags to operate in the country’s waters, according to industry watchdogs.

In response to the incident, China’s foreign ministry reassured that all crew members were safe and reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Ghana to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals and institutions in the country.

“China will continue to work with Ghana to effectively safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Ghana,” stated ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun.

Authorities in Ghana are continuing their investigation into the suspected pirate attack.