A joint team of regulatory and security agencies has launched an urgent investigation into a fish mortality incident at the Tema Shipyard.
The probe is being spearheaded by the Food and Drugs Authority in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, the Tema Metropolitan Assembly, and the Ghana Police Service’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
According to a joint statement issued on April 9, the incident was first detected on April 6, when dead fish were discovered near the main unloading ramp at the Tema Shipyard.
The statement indicated that the fish were found within a 50-metre radius of the unloading area, after being spotted by security personnel between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
“A concentration of dead fish was observed within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp. It was first noticed by security personnel between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM. A rapid-response team made up of FDA inspectors, police officers, and Tema Port officials has since been working to determine the possible cause,” the statement said.
Preliminary assessments have not suggested any deliberate human involvement or immediate public health risk. However, investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause of the incident.
Officials say between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples, have been collected and submitted for laboratory analysis as investigations continue.
“As a precaution, the public is advised to avoid consuming any fish or seafood sourced from the Tema Shipyard and its surrounding waters until further notice. However, fish obtained from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected area remain safe if properly handled and prepared,” the statement said.
The advisory further recommends that fish be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 63°C to ensure safety.
Members of the public have also been encouraged to report any sightings of dead or distressed fish through the Food and Drugs Authority hotline or at the nearest office.
Health officials additionally cautioned that individuals who may have consumed fish from the affected area and are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation should seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers of possible exposure.
