A dynamite explosion at Aboso in the Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality of the Western Region has claimed four lives and left several others seriously injured.
The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon when residents reportedly attempted to kill a large snake that had been terrorising the community.
According to the Assembly Member for the Akutuase Electoral Area, Emmanuel Eshun, a resident who first spotted the snake alerted a nearby shop owner and fired a warning shot.
A security guard at the shop subsequently shot at the snake, but the bullet reportedly struck explosive slabs stored in a nearby shop, triggering a powerful explosion.
Three people, including the shop owner, Kofi Fletcher, died instantly, while a fourth victim later died on the way to hospital, bringing the death toll to four.
Several injured persons are receiving treatment at the Tarkwa Municipal Hospital and the Apinto Government Hospital.
Meanwhile, the Western Central Regional Police Command, led by Regional Commander COP Desmond Owusu Boampong, visited victims receiving treatment at both hospitals.
At Tarkwa Municipal Hospital, six casualties were recorded, with three confirmed dead, two receiving treatment at the Emergency Ward and one undergoing surgery. At the Apinto Government Hospital, two injured persons are in stable condition and awaiting further assessment by doctors.
Police said the visit was to assess the condition of the victims and offer support, while investigations into the incident continue.
