A wave of panic swept through the Prampram community in the Greater Accra Region on Monday, April 14, 2025, after more than 20 school children from two local basic schools — Prampram D/A Basic 'B' and Methodist Freeman Basic School — suddenly collapsed during school hours, sparking fears of mass poisoning.

Suspected Asana Consumption Linked to Mass Collapse

According to eyewitnesses and preliminary reports, the pupils had consumed Asana — a popular traditional Ghanaian corn-based drink — purchased from a vendor near their schools before showing symptoms of distress.

Within minutes, several children were seen staggering and running frantically before collapsing, prompting teachers and local residents to rush them to the Prampram Polyclinic for emergency treatment.

Vendor Also Hospitalised as Investigations Begin

In a shocking twist, the vendor who sold the suspected asana has also been hospitalised, fueling growing suspicion that the beverage might have been contaminated. Health officials have launched an immediate investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident.

As news of the mass collapse spread, concerned parents, guardians, and community members gathered at the Prampram Polyclinic, where medical staff are working around the clock to stabilize the affected pupils.

Social Media in Shock as Videos Emerge

Disturbing videos of the chaotic scenes outside the Prampram Polyclinic have since gone viral on social media, showing anxious onlookers, some in tears, as medical staff rushed to assist the unconscious children.

Authorities Urge Calm, Promise Full Probe

Local authorities have urged the public to remain calm as samples of the suspected asana have been collected for laboratory testing. The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) and public health officers are expected to release their findings in the coming days.

Parents are now being advised to be vigilant about what children consume, especially street-bought beverages, as officials work to establish accountability and prevent future tragedies.

Key Takeaway:

Over 20 pupils from Prampram Basic Schools have been hospitalised after consuming suspected contaminated asana. Health authorities are investigating the incident as the affected children receive emergency care.