By Benjamin Nii Nai Anyetei
The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service, has warned the public against consuming fish from the Tema Shipyard following the discovery of mass dead fish.
The incident was first observed by security personnel on 6 April 2026, with dead fish concentrated within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp. Authorities quickly secured the area and launched an investigation to determine the cause.
A rapid-response team, comprising FDA inspectors, police officers, and Tema Port officials, collected between 60 to 80 fish samples along with water samples under strict chain-of-custody protocols for laboratory testing. Preliminary findings suggest no evidence of deliberate contamination or a widespread public health emergency, though investigations are ongoing.
In the meantime, the FDA has advised the public not to harvest, purchase, or consume fish and seafood from the affected area until an official “All-Clear” notice is issued. Fish from certified cold-chain markets outside the zone remain safe when cooked to an internal temperature of 63°C or above.
Residents are urged to report sightings of dead or distressed fish via the FDA Hotline at 0551 112 224/5 or to the nearest FDA office. Anyone who has consumed fish from the area and experiences symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation should seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers of potential exposure.
Authorities have emphasized that the public should rely only on official channels for updates and further information.
