Keta: A heartbreaking incident has occurred at Goba Beach in Keta, Volta Region, where a six-year-old boy, Jonathan Ahiable, lost his life after drowning in stagnant water.
According to Ghana News Agency, the boy had gone to the beach with two other children, aged four and five, to swim. Reports reveal that the three children entered stagnant water to swim, but Jonathan suddenly got drowned and could not be found, prompting a search operation while the other two children were rescued.
Mr. John Kugbey, an eyewitness, told GNA that the Keta Ambulance Service and National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) were informed, and a rescue operation was launched. Fisherfolks in the area assisted in finding Jonathan's body after a thorough search. "With the help of the rescue team, the boy was later found and taken to the hospital," he said.
He explained that Jonathan was unfortunately pronounced dead on arrival at the Keta Municipal Hospital, and the body has been deposited at the hospital's morgue pending further examination and autopsy. Mr. Wonder Setsofia Deynu, the NADMO Director at Keta, confirmed the incident to GNA and urged parents to take good care of their children, especially during the vacation period, to ensure their safety and well-being.
"This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of supervising our children and being vigilant when they are around water bodies," he said. He mentioned that the mother of the deceased child, Madam Eunice Gatogoh, was grief-stricken over the loss, with the family still in shock, while the community rallied around them during this difficult time.
Mr. Deynu stated that the incident had sent shockwaves through the Keta community, with many expressing sadness and condolences to the family. He appealed to the authorities of Goba Beach, a popular spot for recreation, to improve security, safety measures, and supervision at all times.
He noted that the authorities of the Municipal Assembly would consider implementing safety measures at popular beaches and around water bodies by providing lifeguards, warning signs, and educating the public on water safety to prevent such incidents in the future. GNA also gathered that the incident was reported to the police, who have launched an investigation. Authorities are expected to review safety protocols and emergency response procedures, with the findings aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
