Ghana’s Ministry of the Interior has opened an investigation into the explosion at Hamile, with officials warning that it is too early to determine what caused the incident.
Interior Minister Muntaka Mubarak Mohammed told Parliament on November3 that the inquiry would establish the circumstances surrounding the blast and guide the government’s next steps.
He said no conclusions should be drawn until the investigation had been completed and verified information was available.
“I wish to assure this House that the incident is currently under investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the explosion. At this stage, it will be premature to draw conclusions about its cause or the events that led to it. The Ghana Immigration Service will communicate further developments as more verified information becomes available,” he said.
The minister said security agencies were working with other relevant bodies to examine the incident fully and assess any measures required after the findings are known.
“Mr Speaker, whilst investigations continue, the security agencies will continue working with relevant agencies to ensure that the circumstances of this unfortunate incident are thoroughly examined and that any necessary measures arising from the findings are duly considered,” he stated.
He also highlighted the need to protect personnel responsible for securing Ghana’s borders, saying their safety must remain a priority as they carry out their duties.
“We must remain mindful that the security of our borders depends not only on the courage and commitment of our officers but also on the measures put in place to protect them as they undertake their duties,” he added.
Explosion at border post
Hamile is a border town in the Lambussie District of the Upper West Region and shares a boundary with Burkina Faso. The town is an important entry point and is staffed by officers from the Ghana Immigration Service, alongside personnel from other security agencies.
The explosion occurred while officers were on duty at the border and has prompted security concerns. One Immigration Officer died, while another was seriously injured.
The Interior Ministry said the outcome of the investigation would be made public once the relevant information had been verified.
The minister’s statement means the government has not yet assigned a cause to the explosion, while the Ghana Immigration Service is expected to provide further updates as the inquiry progresses.
