Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, has extended support to victims of the devastating explosion that rocked Odumase, near Konongo, in the Asante Akyem Central Municipality.

The tragic incident, which claimed three lives and injured several others, also left dozens of homes in ruins.

During a visit to the affected community, Dr. Amoakohene expressed deep concern over the scale of destruction.

“I received briefings last night that there was an explosion here at Odumase. Preliminary information suggests that someone was selling explosives at home, and due to the rainstorm, something triggered it, leading to the explosion,” he explained.

The explosion, which destroyed 30 houses, has displaced many families. In response, the minister assured victims of government intervention and instructed the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) to expedite relief efforts.

“We have instructed NADMO to give us a comprehensive report on the affected households so we can determine how best to intervene,” he noted.

Beyond addressing the immediate aftermath of the explosion, Dr. Amoakohene also turned his attention to another pressing issue in the community—the deteriorating state of a key bridge, which has reportedly been weakened by mining activities.

“I have received complaints about a falling bridge. This looks like a hanging town because a mining tunnel runs through it, and the bridge is giving way. I am thankful to the leadership for closing it, and I have cautioned against the use of motorcycles and tricycles on it,” he stated.

He assured residents that he would alert the Roads Minister and arrange for engineers to assess and repair the structure as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, police investigations into the explosion are ongoing, with reports indicating that those responsible for selling the explosives have fled.

“No arrests have been made yet. I am told that the people operating the shop have absconded, but the police are investigating seriously. We must ensure that such incidents do not happen again,” Dr. Amoakohene emphasized.

Authorities have urged community members to provide any relevant information that could help apprehend those involved in the illegal sale of explosives.