3 Dead, 3 Injured in Explosion at Aboso Tailings Site Near Tarkwa
Three people have died and three others sustained injuries following an explosion at a tailings site in Aboso, near Tarkwa, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
According to the Western Central Regional Police Command, the incident occurred at about 1200 hours. Police personnel responded immediately to the scene and have commenced investigations.
Preliminary investigations indicate that workers at the site spotted a python and informed the owner, David Kofi Fletcher.
The now-deceased owner reportedly arrived at the site armed with a pump-action shotgun to kill the reptile.
Police suspect that after firing a shot, the pellets struck explosive materials believed to have been illegally stored on the premises, triggering the explosion.
The explosion claimed the lives of the site owner, David Kofi Fletcher, and two other persons identified only as Solomon and Baba.
Three other persons sustained various degrees of injury and were rushed to hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Tarkwa Municipal Hospital Mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
The blast also caused extensive damage to nearby properties. Several houses in the vicinity had their window panes shattered, while six vehicles parked at a nearby washing bay had their windscreens and windows damaged.
The Minerals Commission has been notified and is collaborating with the Police as investigations continue to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Western Central Regional Police Command has expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured persons a speedy recovery.
The Command further reminded the public that the unlawful possession, storage, handling, or sale of explosives constitutes a serious offence and poses significant risks to public safety. Members of the public are urged to report any suspected illegal storage or handling of explosives to the nearest Police Station.
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