A joint task force comprising the Food and Drugs Authority Ghana (FDA), Fisheries Commission Ghana, Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigation Department Ghana Police Service (CID) has issued a public advisory following a mass fish mortality incident at the Tema Shipyard.
The incident, first observed in the early hours of April 6, 2026, has prompted urgent investigations to determine its cause.
Incident Under Investigation
According to the joint press release, dead fish were discovered within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp at the shipyard. Security personnel first reported the situation between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
A rapid-response team made up of FDA inspectors, police officers, and port officials quickly secured the area and began investigations.
Authorities have collected between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples, which are currently undergoing laboratory testing under strict chain-of-custody procedures.
Officials say there is, so far, no evidence of deliberate sabotage or a widespread public health emergency.
Public Safety Measures
As a precaution, the public has been strongly advised not to harvest, purchase, or consume fish or seafood from the Tema Shipyard or nearby areas until an official clearance is issued by the FDA.
However, authorities clarified that fish sourced from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected zone remains safe when properly cooked to an internal temperature of at least 63°C.
Health Advisory
Individuals who may have consumed fish from the affected area and are experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation are urged to seek immediate medical attention and inform healthcare providers of possible exposure.
Reporting and Updates
The public is encouraged to report any sightings of dead or distressed fish to the FDA through its hotline or nearest offices.
Authorities assured that further updates will be provided as investigations progress, urging citizens to rely only on official sources for accurate information.
The incident has raised concerns about environmental safety and food security in Tema, a major hub for Ghana’s fishing and maritime activities.
