A powerful explosion at shops dealing in mining explosives at Odumasi, near Konongo in the Asante Akyem Central Municipality of the Ashanti Region, has left one person dead and several others injured, including two firefighters.
The fire, which broke out in stores selling dynamites and other explosives used by local miners, triggered earth-shaking blasts that damaged buildings and left dozens injured. Victims have been rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
The explosion and subsequent inferno occurred about 50 metres away from a fuel station.
The exact cause of the explosion remains unknown, but authorities say the driver of the first fire tender on the scene collapsed after his vehicle was caught in the impact.
Another firefighter sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital.
Divisional Officer Grade 2, Joe Bryden, the Asante Akyem Central Municipal Fire Commander, confirmed to LUV FM that a resident who attempted to warn firefighters to retreat died from the explosion.
“He was trying to warn the firefighters to back off, but before he could escape, the explosion occurred. He was severely injured, and I’ve been told he has passed,” Bryden said.
Authorities are still assessing the full extent of casualties and damage as investigations continue.