Deadly Quarry Explosion At Shama: Minerals Commission Says Company Was Operating Illegally Without Permit

The Minerals Commission in a statement has revealed that the quarry which suffered a destructive explosion over the weekend at the Anto-Aboso area in the Shama District of the Western Region was operating outside the law.

The deadly explosion occurred around 11:50 p.m. on September 9, claiming five lives and leaving several injured.

The workers who tragically perished in the explosion said to be of Ghanaian and Chinese nationality were severely scorched beyond recognition.

According to the Minerals Commission, Sta Addams Enterprise, the company responsible for the quarry site where the explosion occurred had not been granted any lease, approval, or permit to operate.

The company had paid no heed to earlier warnings regarding their illegal activities at the site either.

“A routine monitoring visit by the inspectors from the Takoradi Office to the site revealed that the enterprise was engaged in site cleaning and preparatory works and had conducted run of the machines and equipment on site without the approval of the Commission,” it iterated in a statement issued on Monday, September 11.

“The enterprise was therefore notified by the inspectors that such activities are illegal and was directed to cease any activity on the site until the lease is granted and all other permits and approvals for the storage, transportation and use of any substance to undertake operations are obtained.”

Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the explosion. Those injured are currently receiving medical attention at various hospitals and several others are reportedly missing.

“Consequently, the activity of the enterprise was illegal. The Commission wishes to remind the media and the public that the Inspectorate Division is committed to ensuring that all quarry sites are licensed and all the requisite approvals and permits are obtained before operations are undertaken,” it added.