Fishing activities in Kamgbunli, a community in the Ellembelle District of the Western Region, have been suspended following the outbreak of a mysterious disease affecting fish in the local rivers.

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The situation has sparked fear among residents and disrupted livelihoods, especially among fisherfolk who rely on the rivers for their daily income.

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For the past month, fishermen have reported alarming abnormalities in their catches from the Ebi River, with fish developing severe skin infections. The infected fish exhibit red, swollen sores that worsen into open wounds, making them unsuitable for consumption or sale.

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In response, local authorities have imposed a temporary ban on fishing in the Ebi, Fia, and Amanzule rivers as a precautionary measure while the source of the infection is investigated.

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"We have also summoned the fisherfolk and advised them to stay away from the river since the cause is still unknown. Until investigations are completed, they have been instructed to refrain from any activities on the river," stated Dawuda Musa, an Assembly Member.

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A JoyNews team that joined some fishermen on an expedition along the Ebi River observed troubling conditions. Besides the infected fish, the river emitted a strong, foul odour, and its waters had taken on an unusual discolouration, raising further health concerns.

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Ellembelle District Health Director, Dr. Augustine Amoako, expressed concerns about potential health risks but acknowledged that the exact cause remains undetermined.

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"There is a likelihood of health implications, but we cannot be definitive at this point because the exact cause is unknown. Once the team arrives and samples of the fish and water are collected and tested, we will be able to determine the cause, which might be chemical. For now, we can only predict that there may be health consequences," he stated.

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The fishing ban has hit the local economy hard, with fishmongers and residents expressing distress over financial losses and uncertainty about fish already purchased.

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"As a result of this emergency, anyone who has already bought some for home consumption is now in a dilemma. For instance, I bought mine a fortnight ago, intending to use it later. However, with this issue now emerging, I am waiting for the outcome of the investigation. Honestly, it’s a real problem," said Shaibu Abdullah Issaka, a resident.

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Fish traders have also voiced concerns over the financial impact, urging authorities to expedite their investigations to avoid further losses.

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Despite the growing urgency, the Western Regional Fisheries Commission has yet to collect water and fish samples for laboratory analysis, prolonging the uncertainty in the community.

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Until a conclusive cause is identified and addressed, Kamgbunli residents remain in limbo, hoping for swift intervention to restore their livelihoods and ensure public safety.

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