The nine had concealed themselves in a Singaporean vessel, MV Kota Bunga which had come to Takoradi, loaded bauxite and was about to depart to China.
According to the police, the nine had entered the port and sneaked into the vessel. They hid themselves in various places including the anchor hole (area created for the anchor).
After going through the normal processes before departure, the crew detected some human activities and had to conduct a search all over again.
Realising danger the nine came out of their holes and jumped into the sea.
Unfortunately the deceased was unable to swim and therefore before his colleagues, who were fleeing arrest could go to his rescue, he had taken in too much water and died immediately he was brought to the shore.
The Director of Marine Police in the Western Region, Chief Superintendent Samuel Owusu Berko told Graphiconline that two of the stowaways have been arrested and the vessel has been detained to help in investigations.
-graphic