Ammonium Nitrate Explosion At Omini Quarry At Ohiamadwen In The Shama District
On the evening of September 10th, 2023, at approximately 10:05 PM, a detonation occurred involving ammonium nitrite. This incident took place within the premises of a quarry, formerly known as OMINI Quarry but now under the ownership of STA ADDSAMS Enterprise, located in the Anto-Aboso community within the Shama District.
The initial reports suggest that a piece of heavy machinery operated by the quarry accidentally ignited in proximity to the storage area containing ammonium nitrate, triggering a catastrophic explosion. Tragically, this explosion resulted in the loss of five lives, two of whom were Chinese nationals, while three individuals remain in critical condition and are currently receiving medical treatment. Additionally, two survivors have been discharged from medical care, while three Chinese nationals are still unaccounted for. The missing individuals are Wang Haiying, Wei Aanhua (the CEO of the enterprise), Zhang Xin, Lee Gin, and Shan Shon.
Regrettably, the situation is compounded by the discovery that the remains of Wang Haiying, particularly her body parts, appear to be fragmented beyond recognition. An ongoing investigation aims to confirm the status of Wei Aanhua by locating the necessary evidence.
According to Lucas Adama Kplo, the Human Resources representative for the company, some employees from the morning shift had already left the premises before the incident, leaving behind those residing in close proximity and the evening shift staff.
The repercussions of this explosion are extensive. All structures within the quarry site have been destroyed. The blast has left behind a substantial crater and a deep fracture in the ground that extends beyond the quarry boundaries. Moreover, the force of the explosion has caused structural damage to numerous buildings in the surrounding communities, including the CHIPS compound. The affected areas include Anto, Assorkor, Essaman, Komfueku, Dobina Andoh Krom, Atwereboanda, Aboso, Shama Junction, Nkwanta-Kesedo, and Daboase Junction.
It is estimated that the seismic impact of the explosion traveled approximately 10 kilometers from the site of the detonation, affecting numerous communities within the Shama District.
Surveillance
| No of Staff Identifies | MALE | FEMALE | TOTAL |
| No. Injured | 26 | 2 | 28 |
| Treated And Discharged | 20 | 0 | 20 |
| No. On Admission | 15 | 0 | 15 |
| No. Confirmed Dead | 4 | 2 | 6 |
| No. Missing | 3 | 0 | 3 |
The shocks resulting from the explosion have impacted the residents of the mentioned communities. Currently, both district and regional rapid response teams from the Ghana Health Service have been mobilized to investigate and respond to this event. Among those affected, the elderly and children are experiencing the most significant repercussions.
The Honorable Ebenezer Dadzie, District Chief Executive, expressed his profound sadness regarding the unfortunate incident and pledged to ensure the well-being of those receiving medical treatment. Consequently, he strongly advises the general public to refrain from approaching the quarry site.
In the Anto Aboso electoral area, the Assemblyman, Honorable Emmanuel Owu-Ewie, recounted that he was shaken awake by a loud noise, only to discover that his roof had been torn off his house. He then heard similar distress calls from others in the vicinity. Realizing the presence of a quarry company nearby, he suspected that something had gone wrong. After a brief investigation, he confirmed his suspicions and promptly called for assistance.
This incident has resulted in the structural damage and roof removal of buildings in the neighboring communities surrounding the company.
