A devastating fire at Dansoman Market in the early hours of the morning has reignited concerns over repeated obstruction of fire safety inspections by individuals claiming ownership of the market.
Two men, identified as Mr. Kortey and Mr. Kotoku, reportedly blocked fire officers from carrying out essential checks prior to the incident. Greater Accra Regional Fire Officer, ACFO II Rasheed Nisawu, said the pair had consistently prevented access to fire officials.
“On multiple occasions, these individuals have stopped us from conducting safety inspections, insisting the market belongs to them,” he said. “Their actions have severely hampered our ability to ensure basic fire safety. This is extremely dangerous and requires urgent attention.”
ACFO II Nisawu appealed to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) and national authorities to intervene.
“We cannot safeguard the market if we are denied access. The MCE and government must step in before more lives and livelihoods are lost,” he emphasized.
The fire destroyed more than eight shops, leaving traders in shock and mourning. Tragically, an eight-year-old girl was found dead in the debris. Eyewitnesses reported that the flames began in the very shop where she had been locked before the fire spread.
Authorities are expected to launch investigations into both the cause of the fire and the alleged obstruction of fire safety operations.
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