Nine officers from the Ghana Navy have successfully completed the Basic Operative Capability Course – Two in the Special Boat Squadron (SBS), an elite special forces unit, at the Nutekpor Naval Base in the Volta Region.
After 26 weeks of rigorous training, these graduates have attained the status of Special Forces Operatives and are prepared to join the ranks of combat-ready SBS operatives, focusing on tasks such as countering piracy and trafficking.
Commander Seth Dzakpasu of the SBS Unit, speaking during the graduation ceremony, highlighted the challenging nature of the six-month basic training. Out of the initial 29 trainees, only nine successfully completed the demanding course.
The pre-course phase, including medical examinations, initially saw 21 potential trainees qualify to begin training on March 20, 2023. The first four weeks involved strenuous physical drills and minimal sleep to test the trainees' determination and resilience.
Commander Dzakpasu noted that the attrition rate was highest during these first four weeks, with nine trainees choosing to leave the course by ringing the bell.
Tragically, two trainees withdrew from the course, and Able Seaman Class One Ayamba lost his life during water confidence training.
Commodore Bright E.K. Atiayao, the Flag Officer Commanding (FOC) of the Naval Base at Nutekpor, welcomed the attendees and emphasized the commitment of the Chief of the Naval Staff to training and enhancing the Ghana Navy's capabilities to meet global standards.
Rear Admiral Issah Adam Yakubu, the Chief of Naval Staff and Special Guest of Honour commended the new operatives for overcoming significant challenges during the course.
He urged them to embrace their responsibilities in safeguarding the nation and its maritime interests, following the path laid by their predecessors.
The newly graduated officers received cash prizes and badges as a symbol of special recognition, along with other awards recognizing their hard work, skills, and intelligence throughout the various training phases.
The event was graced by Mr. Tom Norring, the Danish Ambassador to Ghana, and officers from the United States Navy based at the Command for Special Purposes. The ceremony also featured impressive displays of skills by the newly trained operatives.