Many people are feared dead after a huge explosion near a mining town in western Ghana.
Police say a vehicle carrying mining explosives collided with a motorcycle near the town of Bogoso.
Images shared by local media showed a large plume of black smoke rising above destroyed buildings and scattered debris as residents call for help.
Police have not confirmed the number of casualties but graphic videos showed mutilated bodies of victims.
“The extensive fire caused considerable damage to several buildings and their contents in the Community. A number of people are feared dead,” the fire service said in a statement.
A large crater can also be seen beside a road.
In an emergency notice, police said the “huge explosion” had occurred between Bogoso and the village of Bawdie.
Rescue efforts are under way and people have been told to move out of the area.
Police called on nearby towns to “open up their classrooms, churches etc to accommodate surviving victims”.
“We continue to urge the public to remain calm as we manage the situation.”
The president Nana Akufo-Addo has tweeted about the incident:
I have just received a briefing on the circumstances that led to an explosion in Apiate near Bogoso, in the Western Region, resulting in the loss of lives and the destruction of properties belonging to residents. 1/4
— Nana Akufo-Addo (@NAkufoAddo) January 20, 2022
“I have just received a briefing on the circumstances that led to an explosion in Apiate near Bogoso, in the Western Region, resulting in the loss of lives and the destruction of properties belonging to residents. It is a truly sad, unfortunate and tragic incident, and I extend, on behalf of Government, deep condolences to the families of the deceased, and I wish the injured a speedy recovery.
“The Police, Armed Forces and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) are co-ordinating efforts to contain the situation, and I have also instructed NADMO to see to it that rapid relief is brought to residents of the town.
“Government will spare no effort to ensure a rapid return to a situation of normalcy for residents of Apiate.”
The police said: “Most of the victims have been rescued and are on admission at various hospitals and clinics within the Bogoso Municipality.Reinforcement of resources and personnel have been dispatched to the area to assist in the handling of the incident.We continue to urge the public to remain calm as we manage the situation.”
Source: Daily Mail GH
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