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Tragic Fuel Tanker Fire Claims 6 Lives on Nsawam Road

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has intensified its public safety warnings following the horrific fuel tanker explosion on the Accra–Nsawam Highway that claimed six lives and left several others in critical condition. The incident, which occurred at Signboard near Okanta, saw 54,000 litres of petrol ignite, creating a “petrol vapour cloud” that trapped victims in a massive inferno.

The Voice of the GNFS: Direct Warnings to the Public

In a formal press release, the Eastern Regional Command of the GNFS expressed deep concern over the behavior of some individuals at the accident site.

“The Ghana National Fire Service strongly cautions the public against fuel siphoning, which is illegal and extremely dangerous, and urges the public to stay away from accident scenes involving flammable substances and to immediately alert emergency services,” stated Ignatius K. Baidoo, Divisional Officer Three (DO III) and Eastern Regional Public Relations Officer.

Preliminary assessments by the fire service suggest that the disaster was likely preventable. Evidence indicates that unauthorized individuals may have attempted to illegally breach the petrol tanker using cutting tools, generating sparks that ignited the volatile petrol fumes.

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A Heroic Intervention Amidst Chaos

Despite the high risk of a secondary explosion, firefighters from Suhum and Bunso Fire Stations worked tirelessly to contain the blaze.

“The swift intervention of firefighters prevented a potential explosion,” the GNFS noted in their report, clarifying that while fatalities were recorded due to the sudden ignition of the vapour cloud, their efforts secured the remaining fuel and protected nearby property.

The service remains committed to protecting lives and property, with the Eastern Regional Command appealing for “public cooperation to enhance fire safety across the region”.