Four dead in Aboso, Ghana after gunfire ignites stored dynamite while targeting a snake

On Tuesday, 4 August 2026, an explosion ripped through Aboso in the Prestea Huni‑Valley Municipality of Ghana's Western Region. A resident’s attempt to kill a snake led a shop security officer to fire a shot, which struck slabs of dynamite stored nearby. The blast killed four people, including shop owner Kofi Fletcher, and left several others seriously injured, with five victims reported in critical condition.

Local authorities, including the Ghana Police Service, have launched investigations into the illegal storage and sale of explosives in the residential area. Assembly Member Emmanuel Eshun highlighted concerns over safety protocols at mining sites and called for stricter enforcement of regulations governing explosive materials. Victims are receiving treatment at regional health facilities while the investigation continues.