President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has commiserated with the people of Apiate (also known as Appiatse), near Bogoso in the Western Region, as scores were feared dead in an explosion that occurred on Thursday (20 January 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,” said the president in a Facebook post.
“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.”
He continued: “… 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.”
Safety foremost
Scores are feared dead after a huge explosion occurred on Thursday in Apiate, a small town between Bogoso and Bawdie in the Western Region, the police have confirmed.
The police say they have taken charge of the scene and are providing security to enable emergency workers, including staff of the Ghana National Fire Service, NADMO and the Ambulance Service, to manage the situation.
They are calling on residents in the area to move away from the area and the scene of the explosion to nearby towns for their safety while recovery efforts are under way.
“An appeal is also being made to nearby towns to open up their classrooms, churches et cetera to accommodate surviving victims,” the police said.
Dispersed on admission
Meanwhile, preliminary investigations have established that a vehicle laden with explosives for mining that was travelling from the mines in Tarkwa to Chirano collided with a motorcycle, setting off a spark that caused the explosion.
Most of the victims have been rescued and are on admission at hospitals and clinics within the Bogoso Municipality.
“Reinforcements of resources and personnel have been dispatched to the area to assist in the handling of the incident,” the police said. “We continue to urge the public to remain calm as we manage the situation.”
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