Bogoso explosion: those found culpable will face sanctions – Minister

The Deputy Minister for Lands and Natural Resources, George Mireku Duker says sanctions will be applied if it is found that there was a breach in the regulations of how explosives are transported after a huge explosion occurred at Appiate near Bogoso yesterday.

“Further investigations will reveal whether or not they had an escort. Whether or not explosive manager was part of the team, and so on and so forth as I indicated by L. I 2177. We have the L. I that states clearly the applicable sanctions and those will be triggered if they are found culpable,” the Deputy Minister said.

He indicated that a committee has been set up to investigate whether the mining companies complied with the minerals and mining explosives regulation, L. I 2177.

It has however emerged that the truck at the center of the Bogoso-Appiate fatal explosion had no escort despite carrying the highly explosive substance. The Deputy NADMO Director for Prestea Huni- Valley, Louis Afful said in a CitiFM programme.

The Mining company that was to receive the explosives has also issued a statement.

Chirano Gold Mines said in its statement that the truck belongs to mining services contractor, MAXAM.‬

According to official reports, at least 17 people have been killed and about 59 injured.

According to NADMO also, about 500 houses have been affected, signaling mass displacements.