Six people have died and several others sustained injuries following a tragic road traffic accident that triggered a fire outbreak at Signboard near Okanta, off the Accra–Nsawam Highway in the Eastern Region.
According to a statement issued by the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Eastern Regional Command, the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 14, 2026.
The Service said it received a distress call at about 4:45 a.m. and immediately dispatched firefighters from the Suhum Fire Station to the scene.
Upon arrival, the crew encountered a fully developed vehicular fire involving a petrol tanker carrying approximately 54,000 litres of fuel, a VIP bus, three saloon cars, and four motorcycles.
Reinforcements from the Bunso Fire Station were later deployed due to the intensity of the blaze. Firefighters brought the fire under control at 8:24 a.m. and completely extinguished it at 11:08 a.m.
A total of 15 casualties were recorded, comprising 11 males and four females. Three victims died at the scene, while 12 injured persons were transported to the Nsawam Hospital. Ten critically injured patients were later referred to the Koforidua Regional Hospital.
The GNFS confirmed that three of the critically injured patients subsequently died, bringing the death toll to six. Seven others, including children and adults, remain on admission receiving treatment.
Preliminary investigations suggest that sparks generated during attempts by some individuals to illegally siphon fuel from the tanker may have ignited petrol vapours, triggering the intense fire that engulfed vehicles on the highway.
The Fire Service stated that the swift intervention of firefighters prevented a potential explosion and cautioned the public against fuel siphoning and approaching accident scenes involving flammable substances.
The Eastern Regional Command extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public of its continued commitment to protecting lives and property.
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