Dozens are feared dead in the explosives truck blast.
Reports coming our way indicate that, a heavy-duty truck was transporting dynamite from one town to the other. Driver of the truck, in an attempt to save a bike rider (practica) who crossed his path, crushed into an electrical transformer- leading to the deadly explosion.
Videos emerging from the scene of the accident show dismembered bodies scattered on the road.
Viewers discretion is advised.
An unfortunate scene of an entire community torn down. pic.twitter.com/Uj7DZ3e8k2
— The Accra Times (@theaccratimes) January 20, 2022
Many properties and shelters have also collapsed in the community.
The explosion reportedly went very far causing extensive damage in the area.
The main road linking Tarkwa and Ayamfuri has been blocked momentarily with no vehicle crossing from each side.
Some vehicles have been torn into pieces.
There are no official figures on casualties as of now but sources say dozens have been affected.
Videos from the scene also show some dead bodies lying on the road and on the sides of the road.
What caused the accident?
The driver of the transporting vehicle, upon reaching the area, reportedly had a tyre burst, veered, and crashed into a pole.
After stepping out, the driver reportedly saw fire in the vehicle and rushed to alert people in the community to run to safety.
The fire reportedly escalated and the explosives in the vehicle detonated killing many and causing extensive damage.
According to reports, many people have also sustained severe injuries.
Police statement
“We urge all to remain calm as we manage this unfortunate situation,” the Police said in a statement.
“Full details will be communicated in due course,” the police statement added.
The police say they have taken “charge of the situation providing security to enable the emergency workers including the Ghana National Fire Service, NADMO and the Ambulance Service to manage the situation.”
“The public has been advised to move out of the area to nearby towns for their safety while recovery efforts are underway,” the police statement added.
“An appeal is also being made to nearby towns to open up their classrooms, churches etc to accommodate surviving victims.”
The police has confirmed that preliminary investigation has established that a mining explosive vehicle moving from Tarkwa to Chirano mines collided with a motorcycle resulting in the explosion.
Most of the victims have been rescued and are on admission at various hospitals and clinics within the Bogoso Municipality.
Reinforcement of resources and personnel have been dispatched to the area to assist in the handling of the incident.
We continue to urge the public to remain calm as we manage the situation.
Further updates regarding the emergency evacuation of the injured will be communicated in due course.