The Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC) has set up a nine-member committee to investigate the explosion that occurred at the Anto-Aboso quarry site in the Shama District.

The Regional Minister, Kwabena Okyere Darko Mensah, who is the head of the REGSEC said the committee is to investigate the cause of the explosion.

“The committee will investigate the cause of the explosion, if the company was up to speed on its safety guidelines and licensing, if they had authorisation to store explosives, and also make recommendations to guard against future occurrences” he added.

The Regional Minister indicated that the committee, made up of representatives from the Minerals Commission, NADMO, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Ghana Health Service, works engineer and Assembly members for the area, has three weeks to investigate and submit their report.

Mr. Okyere Darko Mensah made this known after an emergency security meeting with stakeholders, including the police, Fire Service and NADMO.

He expressed hope the committee will deliver on its mandate.

Background

Five persons including one Chinese national died following an explosion at a quarry site in Anto Aboso in the Western Region on Saturday, September 9.

The explosion, which also affected surrounding communities in the Shama District left many shocked as many people are counting their losses.

According to eyewitnesses, the explosion occurred around 11 p.m. at the Omni Quarry site.

The cause of the explosion is yet to be established but bodies of some workers who were at the site have been found scattered around.

Some of the bodies include Chinese nationals who are yet to be identified due to the dismembered nature whilst three Ghanaians have been confirmed dead.