Preliminary investigations have commenced ascertaining the cause of an inferno that gutted an on-site laboratory at the Ahafo South Mine of Newmont Africa.

The fire incident which occurred on Sunday, April 9, 2023, ravaged materials and equipment at the laboratory with no injuries or casualties recorded.

Management of the mining company says the situation has been brought under control.

General Manager at the Ahafo Mine, Alex Annin, indicated the company is awaiting the established cause of the fire while they continue to prioritise safety fire at the mine.

“The regulatory authorities have visited the incident scene and have commenced investigations. We await the results to understand the cause of the fire and determine the next steps. Safety remains our topmost priority and we look forward to applying the lessons learned from the investigations to avoid a repeat incident,” he said.

In a video that surfaced on social media, a thick plume of smoke was seen emanating from the laboratory while a fire tender gushed out water to douse the fire.

Joint efforts by the district fire service team and the company ensured the fire did not spread to adjoining structures at the scene.

Activities at the mine have presently resumed with workers going about their responsibilities.

“We are relieved that the incident did not result in any injury or fatality to the workforce who remain our most important resource. Everyone is safe and back to work,” Alex Annin said.