Authorities probe discovery of dead fish at Tema shipyard

Authorities have launched investigations into the discovery of dead fish at the slipway of the Tema Shipyard enclave, following concerns about possible environmental and public health risks. The incident was detected on Monday, April 6, 2026, during a routine sanitation exercise. The dead fish were mainly of the Sardinella aurita species, prompting an immediate response from health officials.

According to the Head of the Port Health Unit in Tema, Hajia Jajatu Soale, two officers on duty, Richard Agongo and Samuel Gyamfi, were first alerted by security personnel to the presence of the dead fish along the slipway. Officials from the Food and Drugs Authority, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Fisheries Commission and the Marine Police visited the site and collected samples of the fish for laboratory testing. The affected area was secured to prevent public access. The Port Health Unit returned to the site the following day with logistics, including a pickup vehicle, tools and hired labour, to carry out a clean-up exercise, the cost of which was borne by the unit. Alhaji Osman Sulemana, the Chief Executive Officer of PSC Tema Shipyard, said: "This is an unfortunate incident, but it has nothing to do with the shipyard. We do not undertake any form of fishing activity here, nor do we sell fish."

Further investigations are ongoing, with a team from the Environmental Protection Agency, led by Aquaculture Desk Officer Helina S. Dodd, also collecting fish and water samples for detailed analysis. Helina S. Dodd assured the public that there is currently no immediate cause for alarm, noting that conclusive findings will depend on laboratory results.