The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Fisheries Commission, the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service have launched an urgent investigation into a fish mortality incident at the Tema Shipyard.
The incident, first observed on April 6, 2026, involved dead fish found within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp, according to a joint statement released on Thursday, April 9. Security personnel initially reported the situation between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
“Dead fish were found concentrated within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp. It was first observed by security personnel between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM. A rapid-response team comprising FDA inspectors, police officers, and Tema Port officials have since been collaborating to establish what might have caused this,” the statement said.
Preliminary findings indicate no signs of deliberate sabotage or an immediate public health emergency. Authorities have collected between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples, for urgent laboratory analysis.
Authorities have also issued a public advisory urging citizens to refrain from harvesting, purchasing, or consuming any fish or seafood from the Tema Shipyard or nearby areas until the FDA issues an “All-Clear” notice.
Fish sourced from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected zone remains safe when cooked to an internal temperature of 63°C or above, the advisory stated.
The public has been encouraged to report sightings of dead or distressed fish via the FDA Hotline: 0551 112 224/5 or to the nearest FDA office.
Additionally, individuals who may have consumed fish from the affected area and are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation have been advised to seek immediate medical attention and inform their healthcare provider of the potential exposure.
Authorities further urged the public to rely only on official channels for updates as investigations continue.
