A massive fire ripped through a slum settlement linked to the Ghana Railway Corporation in Sekondi, Western Region, in the early hours of Wednesday, September 10, reducing dozens of homes and structures to ashes.
According to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the blaze destroyed 41 wooden shacks and seven metal container units. Many residents lost personal belongings, but fortunately, no casualties were reported.
The fire, which threatened more than 600 nearby wooden structures and adjoining buildings, was brought under control within an hour by GNFS personnel led by Metro Fire Commander DO II Michael Tetteh. Their efforts were supported by the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority, the Navy, the Air Force, and the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly, who ensured a steady water supply throughout the operation.
While investigations are ongoing, preliminary findings suggest the fire may have been triggered by unattended gas cooking. “Unattended gas cooking is suspected, though the exact cause is still being determined,” the GNFS indicated.
