Death toll from western Ghana explosion rises to 17

ACCRA, Ghana

The death toll from Thursday’s explosion in a small town in western Ghana rose to 17, authorities said on Friday.

In a statement, the Information Ministry said that 59 people were injured in the blast and 42 people were receiving treatment in hospitals.

The explosion occurred on Thursday when a vehicle carrying mining explosives collided with a motorcycle in the Apiate town, according to initial investigation.

Several houses and structures in the town were also destroyed as a result of the explosion.

Vice President Mahamadu Bawumia visited the site of the incident on Friday morning. He assured residents of the government's support and their intention to rebuild the community.

"We have already spoken to the State Housing Corporation and are in consultation with the mining communities here. We will quickly try to put in place facilities that will help those who have been displaced. That will be a priority for us," he said.