The Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources through the Inspectorate Division of the Minerals Commission has intimated that it is investigating circumstances leading to the accident involving the transportation of explosives at Apiate a community near Bogoso in the Western Region on Thursday 21st January, 2022.

The Ministry in a statement indicated that its action is in line with the Minerals and Mining (Explosives) Regulations, 2012 (L.I.2177).

According to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, the investigation will among others help government to determine whether the regulations covering transportation of explosives were complied with and also what led to the unfortunate tragedy.

The Ministry stated that government is determined as indicated by the President of the Republic, Nana Addo Dankwa Akuffo Addo to assist a “Return to a situation of normalcy for residents” as quickly as possible.

This follows the unfortunate explosion of mining explosives contained in a truck which was headed to Bogoso in the Western Region.

President on explosion

Speaking on efforts to help tackle the incident, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo indicated that government will spare no effort to ensure a rapid return to a situation of normalcy for residents of Apiate.

The President averred that the Police, Armed Forces and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) are co-ordinating efforts on the situation following the explosion.

“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.”
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo

President Akufo-Addo revealed that he has instructed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to see to it that rapid relief is brought to residents of the town.

Following the tragic incident, Ghanaians have expressed worry and have expressed sadness about the event wishing the surviving residents well.

One of such persons is the Vice President, Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who in a post expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the individuals who lost their lives in the explosion in Apiate.

“To those who were injured in the unfortunate occurrence, I wish you Godspeed recovery.”
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia

Former President John Dramani Mahama, also sent his deepest condolences to families who lost their loved ones in the deadly explosion on Thursday afternoon at Apiate.

The former Ghana leader prayed for speedy recovery for the injured victims, urging rescuers on the ground to continue working assiduously “to alleviate the damage and suffering in the affected communities”.

Chirano Gold Mines, owners of the explosives consignment which was being transported has extended its deepest condolences and thoughts to all those who were affected by the tragic incident.

A statement by the mining company stated that it will provide support with relief items to the affected.