The Western Central Regional Police Command is investigating a fatal explosion that occurred at a tailings site in Aboso, near Tarkwa, on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. The tragic incident resulted in the death of three people and left three others with varying injuries.
Incident Details and Cause
According to preliminary police investigations, workers at the site spotted a python at around 12:00 PM on the day of the incident and notified the site owner, David Kofi Fletcher. Fletcher arrived at the location armed with a pump-action shotgun to kill the reptile. It is suspected that after he fired a shot, the pellets struck explosive materials believed to have been illegally stored on the premises, triggering the massive blast.
Casualties and Property Damage
The explosion claimed the lives of three individuals: site owner David Kofi Fletcher and two others identified only as Solomon and Baba. Three additional people sustained injuries and were rushed to the hospital for treatment. The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Tarkwa Municipal Hospital Mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
The impact of the explosion also caused extensive damage to nearby properties. Several houses in the vicinity had their window panes shattered, and six vehicles parked at a nearby washing bay suffered damaged windscreens and windows.
Ongoing Investigations and Police Warning
The Minerals Commission has been notified and is actively collaborating with the police as investigations continue to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Western Central Regional Police Command expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Highlighting the dangers of illicit materials, the Command reminded the public that the unlawful possession, storage, handling, or sale of explosives constitutes a serious offense and poses severe risks to public safety. Citizens have been urged to report any suspected illegal storage or handling of explosives to the nearest police station.
