GNFS clarifies viral video alleging assault by firefighters

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has issued a statement to clarify a viral video circulating on social media, which allegedly shows fire service personnel assaulting a civilian.

In a press release dated January 5, 2025, the Service said the alleged assault, reportedly involving a journalist, is currently under police investigation. GNFS assured the public of its full cooperation to establish the facts.

According to the Service, the video depicts an altercation between firefighters and a suspected thief, who had earlier attacked fire personnel at the scene of a fire with the help of accomplices.

GNFS stated that management has constituted a committee to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident.

While condemning attacks on its personnel, the Service emphasised that it does not tolerate any form of physical or verbal assault on civilians by its staff, regardless of provocation.

The Service has urged the public to remain calm and exercise restraint as investigations continue, assuring its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and transparency. Further updates will be communicated in due course.

Full GNFS Statement:

PRESS RELEASE
TO ALL MEDIA HOUSES
JANUARY 05, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

GNFS Clarifies Viral Video Alleging Assaults by Fire Service Personnel

1. The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has taken note of a viral video circulating on social media which allegedly shows unidentified Fire Service personnel assaulting a civilian.
2. The Service confirms that the alleged assault, reportedly involving a journalist, is under police investigation, and GNFS will fully cooperate to establish the facts.
3. The video appears to capture an altercation between firefighters and a suspected thief, who had earlier attacked firefighters along with accomplices at the fire scene.
4. GNFS management has constituted a committee to investigate the incident thoroughly and establish all relevant facts.
5. While GNFS condemns attacks on its personnel, it equally frowns upon any form of physical or verbal assault on civilians by its staff, regardless of provocation.
6. The Service urges the public to remain calm and exercise restraint while investigations continue.
7. GNFS remains committed to professionalism, accountability, and transparency in its operations and will continue to cooperate with the media and relevant authorities to ensure accurate public information.
8. Further updates on this matter will be communicated as necessary.

END

SIGNED
DESMOND E. ACKAH
DIVISIONAL OFFICER GRADE TWO (DO II)
HEAD OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

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