Gunshot to kill a snake triggers deadly explosion at Aboso

Three persons are feared dead, while five others are in critical condition following an explosion at a Chanfang machine site at Aboso in the Prestea Huni Valley Municipality of the Western Region.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, sending shockwaves through the mining community and leaving the victims with devastating injuries.

According to reports, explosives had allegedly been stored on the surface at the mining site. The explosion is believed to have been triggered when the site owner reportedly fired a gun in an attempt to kill a snake.

The gunshot is suspected to have ignited the explosives, resulting in a massive blast that claimed three lives instantly.Eye witness sat the force of the explosion was so severe that the bodies of the deceased were left beyond recognition.

The bodies have since been conveyed to the Tarkwa Government Hospital mortuary for preservation and identification.

Five other victims who sustained varying degrees of injuries were rescued from the scene and rushed to hospital, where they are currently receiving treatment. Their conditions are reported to be critical.

Security personnel and other emergency responders visited the scene to begin investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Authorities are expected to determine whether explosives were being stored in accordance with the country’s mining safety regulations.

The tragedy has left residents of Aboso in a state of shock, with many calling for stricter enforcement of safety protocols governing the handling and storage of explosives at mining sites.

As of the time of filing this report, officials had not released the identities of the deceased, while investigations into the explosion were ongoing.