The Ashanti Regional Police Command has launched a manhunt for the owner of a dynamite shop who fled after a powerful explosion at Odumasi near Konongo in the Asante Akyem Central Municipality.

The blast, which occurred on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, resulted in three deaths, multiple injuries, and extensive property damage.

The explosion left three people dead, while several others sustained injuries.

Among the injured, two victims have been transferred from the Konongo Government Hospital to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for further treatment, while two others remain hospitalized.

Additionally, two patients have been discharged.

Beyond the human toll, the blast damaged 30 households, displacing numerous residents and leaving them homeless.

he Ashanti Regional Minister, Dr. Frank Amoakohene, visited the explosion site and met with the injured victims at the hospital.

Confirming that the suspect is still on the run, he assured the public that the police are actively pursuing him.

As the Chairman of the Regional Security Council, Dr. Amoakohene condemned the illegal sale of explosives in residential areas and has tasked security agencies—including the National Investigation Bureau (NIB), the Ghana Police Service, and National Security—to conduct thorough investigations in mining communities to root out similar illegal activities.

Additionally, the National Disaster Management Organization (NADMO) has been directed to assess the situation and provide relief to displaced families.

To aid those affected, the Minister has allocated GHS 5,000 to each of the 30 affected households, amounting to a total of GHS 150,000.

Meanwhile, authorities continue to urge the public to report any information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest as efforts intensify to bring him to justice.