FDA probe fish deaths at Tema Shipyard, public warned to avoid seafood from area

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

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

According to a joint statement issued on April 9, the incident was first detected on April 6, when dead fish were found near the main unloading ramp at the facility.

“Dead fish were found concentrated within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp. It was first observed by security personnel between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM.

A rapid-response team comprising FDA inspectors, police officers, and Tema Port officials have since been collaborating to establish what might have caused this,” the statement said.

Initial assessments have not pointed to any deliberate human action or immediate public health threat, but investigations remain ongoing to determine the exact cause.

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

As a precaution, authorities have advised the public to avoid consuming fish or seafood sourced from the Tema Shipyard and nearby waters until further notice.

Residents have, however, been reassured that fish obtained from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected area remain safe if properly handled and prepared. The advisory recommends cooking fish to an internal temperature of at least 63°C.

The public has also been encouraged to report any sightings of dead or distressed fish through FDA hotlines or at the nearest office.

Health officials further warned 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 attention and inform health workers of possible exposure.

Authorities say further updates will be provided as investigations progress.