Regulators Probe Fish Die-Off at Tema Shipyard After Dozens Found Dead Near Ramp

A joint team of regulatory and security agencies has launched an urgent investigation into a fish mortality incident at the Tema Shipyard.

The operation is being led by the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) in collaboration with the Fisheries Commission, the Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service.

According to a statement issued on April 9, the incident came to light on April 6 after dead fish were discovered near the facility’s main unloading ramp.

The statement indicated that the fish were found within a 50-metre radius and were first spotted by security personnel between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. A rapid-response team made up of FDA officials, police officers, and Tema Port authorities was subsequently deployed to investigate the situation.

Preliminary findings have not suggested any deliberate human involvement or immediate threat to public health, but authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause.

Officials have collected between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples, for laboratory analysis.

As a precautionary measure, the public has been advised to avoid consuming fish or seafood sourced from the Tema Shipyard and surrounding waters until further notice.

Authorities also assured that fish from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected area remains safe if properly handled and cooked, recommending an internal cooking temperature of at least 63°C.

Members of the public have been urged to report any sightings of dead or distressed fish to the FDA through its hotline or at the nearest office.

Health officials further cautioned that anyone who may have consumed fish from the affected area and is experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation should seek immediate medical care and inform health personnel of possible exposure.