The Foods and Drugs Authority (FDA) has issued a strong public health warning against the consumption of fish from the Tema Shipyard and surrounding areas following a mass fish mortality incident recorded earlier this week.

In a joint statement released on April 9, 2026, the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Fisheries Commission, Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA), and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) of the Ghana Police Service urged the public not to harvest, buy, or consume fish or seafood from the affected zone until further notice.

The advisory comes after large quantities of dead fish were discovered within a 50-metre radius of the main unloading ramp at the Tema Shipyard on April 6. The incident was first detected by security personnel between 5:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m., prompting an immediate response from regulatory and security agencies, who secured the site and launched investigations.

While the exact cause of the fish deaths remains unknown, authorities say there is currently no evidence of deliberate sabotage or an immediate widespread health emergency. However, they stress that the restriction on consumption is a precautionary measure to protect public health.

Consumers are being reassured that fish obtained from certified cold-chain markets outside the affected area remain safe, provided they are thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of at least 63 degrees Celsius.

The agencies also advised anyone who may have already consumed fish from the Tema Shipyard area and is experiencing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, or skin irritation to seek immediate medical care and inform health professionals of possible exposure.

As part of the ongoing investigation, between 60 and 80 fish samples, along with water samples, have been collected for laboratory testing under strict handling procedures.

Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant, report any sightings of dead or distressed fish, and rely only on official updates as efforts continue to determine the cause of the incident.