A significant incident of mass fish mortality at the Tema Shipyard has prompted an urgent collaborative investigation involving the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), the Fisheries Commission, the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigations Department of the Ghana Police Service.
The occurrence was first identified on April 6, 2026, when security personnel noticed dead fish between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., concentrated within a 50-metre radius of the primary unloading ramp.
A rapid-response team consisting of FDA inspectors, police officers, and Tema Port officials has been dispatched to ascertain the cause of the incident.
According to a joint press release from the four organisations, there is currently no evidence of intentional sabotage or an immediate widespread public health crisis.
Between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples, have been gathered under strict chain-of-custody protocols for priority laboratory analysis.
Authorities have released a public advisory urging citizens to avoid harvesting, purchasing, or consuming any fish or seafood from the Tema Shipyard or surrounding areas until the FDA issues an “All-Clear” notice.
Fish obtained from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected area is deemed safe when cooked to an internal temperature of 63°C or higher, as stated in the advisory.
The public has also been urged to report any sightings of dead or distressed fish to the FDA Hotline: 0551 112 224/5 or to the nearest FDA office.
Furthermore, individuals who may have consumed fish from the affected region and are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation are advised to seek immediate medical attention and inform their healthcare provider of the potential exposure.
The cause of the fish mortality is still under urgent investigation. The four institutions jointly secured the site shortly after the incident was identified to mitigate further risk.
Meanwhile, authorities have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available and have urged the public to rely solely on official communication channels.
Read the full press release below
