AXIM BEACH: Over 60 dead dolphins washed ashore

Some 60 dead dolphins have been sighted at the shores of Axim-Bewire in the Nzema East Municipality of the Western Region.

Reports reaching JoyNews on Sunday, April 4, indicates that the sea creatures may have been poisoned in their natural habitat.

This incident follows a similar one on Friday, April 2, 2021, when large species of fishes were spotted dead at the coastline of Osu and Keta.

Sources say most of the reported dead mammals have gone missing while processed dolphins now attract high market price.

An eyewitness who spoke to JoyNews said, the colour of the sea has also changed due to recent happenings.

“I saw more of the dolphins close to the seashore and I think more of them would be washed ashore today and tomorrow.

“The dolphins are so many that they have changed the colour of the seawater in the area.”

In view of this, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is cautioning the general public to desist from consuming such products since the cause of death of these sea creatures has not been established.

Meanwhile, the Marine Police Unit of the Ghana Police Service and the Fisheries Commission have commenced investigations to ascertain the facts leading to the death of the mammals.

Again, seawater samples have been collected from the beach in the Korle Klottey District in the Greater Accra Region to assist with the investigations.

According to the Commission in a press statement, preliminary observation on the fishes showed no wound.

“Examinations will be carried out on the fish gills and other histological examinations will equally be conducted to ascertain any pathological cause.

“The seawater samples collected will be analyzed for physical, chemical, and other biological parameters.

“The colour of the sea and temperature are normal. We assure everyone that we are working hard to ascertain the actual cause of mortality of the fish,” parts of the statement indicated. – SOURCE: myjoyonline.com