A joint investigation is underway following the discovery of mass fish mortality at the Tema Shipyard. The incident, which was first observed on the morning of April 6, 2026, has prompted a coordinated response from the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Fisheries Commission, the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.
Incident Overview
Security personnel first spotted the dead fish between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM concentrated within a 50-meter radius of the shipyard’s main unloading ramp. While the site has been secured by authorities, the exact cause of the mortality remains unknown and is currently under urgent investigation.
According to a joint press release issued on April 9, a rapid-response team is collaborating to determine the source of the incident. Preliminary findings indicate no evidence of deliberate sabotage or an immediate widespread health emergency. Investigators have collected between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples, for priority laboratory testing under strict chain-of-custody protocols.
Public Health Advisory
In the interest of public safety, the collaborating institutions have issued the following directives:
– Consumption Ban: The public is strictly advised not to harvest, purchase, or consume fish or seafood from the Tema Shipyard or adjacent areas until an official “All-Clear” notice is issued by the FDA.
– Safe Alternatives: Fish sourced from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected zone is considered safe, provided it is cooked to an internal temperature of 63°C or above.
– Reporting: Citizens are encouraged to report any sightings of dead or distressed fish to the FDA Hotline at 0551 112 224/5 or the nearest FDA office.
– Medical Guidance: Anyone who has consumed fish from the area and experiences symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation should seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers of the potential exposure.
The authorities emphasized that further updates will be provided as laboratory results and investigation findings become available. The public is urged to rely solely on official channels for information regarding this incident.
Source: classfmonline.com
