By Gareyson Yaba Neufville
HARPER, Maryland County — Tension is mounting in Maryland County as over 50 women gathered at the Maryland County Administration Building demanding answers following the disappearance of a fisherman whose canoe capsized near the Harper Sea Port (formerly Richard Sea Port).
The missing fisherman has been identified as Papa Abraham Stemmer, according to a preliminary report issued by the Maryland County Police Crime Services Department (CSD) on September 29, 2026.
Police report that Stemmer and 20-year-old Bishop Toe departed Nekambo on a fishing expedition when their canoe reportedly overturned due to strong waves and sea currents.
According to Toe’s statement to investigators, both men clung to a fishing net after the canoe capsized. While Toe managed to swim to the shoreline, Stemmer disappeared in the water.
There has been no confirmed trace of Stemmer since the incident.
Police authorities emphasized that the exact circumstances surrounding the accident and Stemmer’s disappearance remain under active investigation, with local search and rescue teams coordinating alongside community divers.
The demonstration at the administrative headquarters has heightened public focus on the incident, with the women calling on local officials to accelerate search operations and maintain transparent communication with the community.
As concern grows among relatives and community members, county authorities have appealed for calm while search and investigative efforts continue.
