Police probe dynamite explosion at tailings site in Aboso

The Western Central Regional Police Command has launched an investigation into a deadly explosion at a tailings site in Aboso in the Western Region that claimed three lives and left three others injured.

The incident occurred around midday on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, according to a statement issued by the Head of the Public Affairs Unit of the Western Central Regional Police Command, Assistant Superintendent of Police Beatrice Turkson.

Preliminary investigations indicate that workers at the site spotted a python and alerted the site owner, David Kofi Fletcher, who reportedly arrived carrying a pump-action shotgun to kill the reptile.

Police suspect that after Mr Fletcher fired at the snake, the shotgun pellets struck explosive materials believed to have been illegally stored on the premises, triggering a powerful blast.

The explosion killed Mr Fletcher and two other individuals identified only as Solomon and Baba.

Three other people sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a health facility.

The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Tarkwa Municipal Hospital mortuary pending autopsy and preservation.

The blast also caused extensive destruction in the surrounding area. Several nearby houses had their windows shattered, while six vehicles parked at a nearby washing bay suffered damage to their windscreens and side windows.

The Police said the Minerals Commission has been notified and is collaborating with investigators to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Western Central Regional Police Command extended its condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

It also reminded the public that the illegal possession, storage, handling or sale of explosives is a serious criminal offence that poses significant risks to lives and property, urging residents to report any suspected illegal explosive materials or activities to the nearest police station.