President Nana Akufo-Addo has reacted to the explosion at Apiate a mining town near Bogoso in western Ghana.
According to President Nana Addo, he has received a briefing on the circumstances that led to the Apiate, resulting in the loss of lives and the destruction of properties belonging to residents.
The President on his Facebook page wrote “ 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.
The Police, Armed Forces, and the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) are coordinating efforts to contain the situation, and I have also instructed NADMO to see to it that rapid relief is brought to residents of the town.
The government will spare no effort to ensure a rapid return to a situation of normalcy for residents of Apiate,” he added.
Many people are feared dead after a huge explosion in Apiate.
Police say a vehicle carrying mining explosives collided with a motorcycle near the town of Bogoso.
Images shared by local media showed a large plume of black smoke rising above destroyed buildings and scattered debris as residents call for help.
Police have not confirmed the number of casualties but graphic videos showed mutilated bodies of victims.
“The extensive fire caused considerable damage to several buildings and their contents in the Community. A number of people are feared dead,” the fire service said in a statement.
A large crater can also be seen beside a road.
In an emergency notice, police said the “huge explosion” had occurred between Bogoso and the village of Bawdie.
Rescue efforts are underway and people have been told to move out of the area.
Police called on nearby towns to “open up their classrooms, churches, etc to accommodate surviving victims”.
“We continue to urge the public to remain calm as we manage the situation.”