The announcement was delivered by Surv. Dr. Nana Agyemang Frimpong, Commissioner of the PSC, during the ongoing National Fire Conference, where stakeholders are examining strategies to curb fire incidents across the country.

Mrs. Ntow Sarpong, who first assumed the role in an acting capacity in March 2025, has since steered the Service with a steady hand.

Her confirmation now gives her the full mandate to advance her vision of an open and transparent administration, one that prioritises the welfare of personnel while strengthening the Service’s capacity to combat fires and mitigate their destructive impact.

The timing of her confirmation aligns perfectly with this year’s Fire Conference, which is heavily focused on rallying support from corporate Ghana for fire prevention and firefighting initiatives.

The conference is also spotlighting the need to improve the nation’s fire safety architecture by enhancing fire management systems and linking them more directly to national development priorities.

A key part of the discussions centres on intensifying public fire safety education to instill a stronger culture of prevention within communities. Stakeholder collaboration remains a major theme, with government agencies, private sector actors, and the general public encouraged to work together to address fire risks more effectively.

Opened at the Alisa Hotel, North Ridge, on November 26, 2025, the conference also underscores the urgent need for resource mobilization to ensure that the GNFS is adequately equipped with modern tools and technology.

Complementing this is a strong emphasis on capacity building, empowering personnel and partners with the skills and knowledge required for effective fire prevention and emergency response.

Participants are further using the platform to exchange best practices and real-world experiences, reinforcing the drive toward continuous improvement in fire management nationwide.

The directive, contained in a circular dated October 9, 2025, and signed by the Director of Finance, DCFO Mark Brako-Appiah Jnr , cited financial constraints as the reason for the move.

“Due to funding challenges, Recruits, Cadets, and existing personnel who went for training were made to pay something to subsidise their feeding cost for the period of their training,” the letter stated.

Per the GNFS circular, the affected personnel have been divided into two groups — those whose arrears will be deducted directly from their bank accounts and those required to make cash payments.

Payments are to be made at the Salaries Office of the GNFS Headquarters or directly into the Service’s account at the Bank of Ghana.

The Service has set December 31, 2025, as the final deadline for all officers to clear their outstanding balances.

“We write for you to bring to their notice that they have up to 31st December 2025 to complete payment,” the directive added.

This development comes at a time when concerns are mounting over financial shortfalls within the security sector, with reports indicating that some officers have had to personally bear parts of their training and operational expenses.

Source : Adomonline

To dispel the claims, the Service organized a practical demonstration for the media in the Northern Region, showcasing the capacity and operation of its fire tenders.

During the exercise, firefighters transferred water from one tender to another, discharging a full 2,000-gallon tank—the largest in the region—in just 5 minutes and 24 seconds.

Speaking after the exercise, the Northern Regional Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, Assistant Divisional Officer II (ADOII) Hudu Baba, said it is untrue that fire tenders leave the station without water.

“Anytime water is flowing through the pipes, we fill our tanks for emergencies. So it’s never the case that a fire engine leaves the station empty,” he clarified.

He explained that the rapid rate at which water is discharged during firefighting can sometimes create the false impression that tenders arrive without water.

ADOII Baba assured the public of the Service’s dedication to effective emergency response and urged citizens to cooperate with firefighters to ensure efficient operations during fire incidents.

Source: AdomOnline

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In a statement, the Head of Public Relations, Desmond Ackah, clarified that there is currently no recruitment exercise underway.

The statement noted that any official recruitment would only be announced following government clearance.

It further explained that legitimate announcements would be published in national newspapers, on the Service’s official website, and on verified social media pages, complete with clear eligibility criteria and application procedures.

The public has therefore been advised to disregard the fake notices and avoid making any payments or purchasing e-vouchers.

Citizens are also encouraged to report any suspicious recruitment activity to law enforcement authorities for swift action.

Meanwhile, the Service reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and professionalism, especially with regard to recruitment processes.

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Read the full statement below:

This revelation was made in a press release issued on Thursday, 1st May 2025, by the Head of Public Relations of the Service, DO II Desmond E. Ackah.

The statement forms part of a comparative analysis of fire incidents recorded between January and December in both 2023 and 2024.

“This achievement highlights the GNFS’s effective fire safety measures and rapid response capabilities,” the statement read.

The report also analyses fire trends, causes, and regional response effectiveness, as well as the influence of recent safety campaigns and operational reforms.

GNFS expressed its commitment to further strengthening fire prevention mechanisms and improving emergency response times, with a view to reducing losses and enhancing public safety nationwide.

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In 2024 alone, the GNFS recorded an alarming 5,596 fire outbreaks between January and November, reflecting a 6.43% increase from the 5,258 incidents reported in the same period in 2023.

This surge is attributed to various factors, including severe weather conditions, non-compliance with fire safety regulations, road accidents, electrical faults, and gas leakages.

However, despite these challenges, the service is fighting to maintain public safety and minimize damage across the country, even as it continues to contend with severe resource limitations.

The recent loss of 37 fire officers in the line of duty, as reported by the former Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Julius Kuunuor on December 18, 2024, underscores the dangerous and hazardous nature of the work firefighters undertake to protect lives and properties.

This stark reality highlights the need for urgent reforms and improvements within the service.

GNFS has long struggled with insufficient resources, outdated equipment, and understaffing.

These limitations have undermined their ability to effectively respond to the increasing number of fire incidents.

The service has repeatedly appealed for additional fire tenders, modern firefighting equipment, and a bolstered workforce.

Unfortunately, many of these requests have gone unmet, leaving firefighters to operate with old and inadequate tools that hinder their ability to respond quickly and efficiently.

The age of some fire tenders is particularly concerning, with many vehicles so outdated that they are unable to provide the swift response required in emergency situations.

The lack of sufficient fire stations in certain constituencies further complicates the service’s ability to reach fire scenes promptly, exacerbating the damage caused by these outbreaks.

The GNFS’s response at times often delayed, contributing to the escalating loss of lives and properties.

Risks to Fire Officers: A Growing Concern

Perhaps the most alarming aspect of this crisis is the safety of the fire officers themselves.

These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day, often facing physical and verbal abuse while carrying out their duties.

Reports of firefighters being attacked while trying to manage fire incidents have become all too frequent.

At a time when they are already exposed to significant dangers on the job, the additional threat of hostile attacks makes their work even more perilous.

The safety and well-being of fire officers must be prioritized. In addition to providing the necessary equipment to carry out their work efficiently, the government and relevant authorities must ensure that these officers are protected from harm while performing their duties.

Their sacrifice should be met with respect and recognition, rather than the added burden of physical or verbal assaults.

A Call for Immediate Action

The current situation demands immediate attention from both the Ghanaian government and the general public. The lack of sufficient fire stations in certain areas is a grave concern that must be addressed.

Fire stations must be established in under-served constituencies to ensure that every citizen has access to emergency firefighting services.

Moreover, the government must allocate adequate funding to the GNFS, enabling the acquisition of modern firefighting equipment, including new fire tenders, advanced rescue gear, and better training for personnel.

The safety of fire officers should also be prioritized, with improved safety protocols and protections against attacks while on duty.

The public also has a critical role to play in this effort. Citizens must adhere to fire safety regulations and report any potential hazards to the authorities.

Additionally, municipal assemblies should prioritize the construction of fire stations in their communities, recognizing that fire prevention and swift response are crucial to saving lives and property.

The Time to Act Is Now

As the frequency of fire outbreaks continues to rise, it is evident that the Ghana National Fire Service needs a coordinated and immediate response from all stakeholders to overcome the resource and safety challenges it currently faces.

The growing crisis calls for urgent government intervention, improved resources, and better protection for fire officers.

It is essential that we support the GNFS in its mission to safeguard lives and properties across the country.

The public must also play its part by adhering to fire safety measures and advocating for better fire service infrastructure.

Only by working together can we ensure that the Ghana National Fire Service is equipped to handle emergencies effectively, protecting both the citizens and the officers who risk everything to ensure our safety.

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The market, a key center for second-hand clothing in Accra, was ravaged by a fire on January 2, 2025, destroying hundreds of shops and goods valued at millions of Ghana cedis. Determined to resume operations swiftly, traders have commenced rebuilding efforts.

However, the GNFS has recommended halting the reconstruction process to ensure proper planning, the use of fire-resistant materials, and the integration of effective fire safety systems.

Speaking with Citi News, Alex King Nartey from the GNFS communication team stressed the need for collaboration between the fire service and the traders.

“We advise that reconstruction be paused to develop a proper building plan incorporating fire-resistant materials, fire detection systems, and firefighting tools at strategic points. These features, like sprinklers, can mitigate fires effectively,” he stated.

Mr. Nartey also criticized the traders’ reliance on wood, emphasizing its susceptibility to fire. He underscored the importance of consulting the GNFS to ensure safety standards are met in the rebuilding process.

“Using wood again in reconstruction is counterproductive. As a service, we hoped the traders would consult us to receive recommendations on using fire-resistant materials. Collaboration is key to preventing a recurrence of such devastation,” he added.

The GNFS urges the traders to prioritize safety over speed, ensuring that the new Kantamanto Market is resilient against future fire outbreaks.

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This advice forms part of their safety education to help reduce domestic fires.

Alex King Nartey, a member of the GNFS Public Relations Department sounded the message of caution on Adom FM midday news, Kasiebo is Tasty.

ADOI Nartey explained that, air (oxygen), fuel and heat are three major causes of fire outbreaks.

In this regard, when there is turning on any source of lights escalate the matter.

“There are three things which bring fire outbreak, air which is oxygen, fuel and heat, so when you smell gas in your kitchen, it means the fuel has taken over your kitchen, we are surrounded by air all the time which will be at force when you smell the gas, light is a heat, turning on a light, means you are allowing the last element which is heat to also add up to the causes which can bring fire easily,” he explained.

In a related development, he advised drivers to be careful and not be too quick to open their car bonnets when it catches fire.

According to him, immediately the bonnet is opened air is trapped, increasing the intensity of the fire.

He advised tat anytime a car is on fire, the bonnet must be opened about one centimeter and a fire extinguisher applied to reduce the fire before the bonnet is widely opened.

“A lot of people turn to lose their cars when it catches fire because they open the bonnet immediately but I’m advising that, you should first use the extinguisher. Then remove the battery terminal to cut the source of power which is causing the fire,” he added.

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The GNFS mentioned harsh weather conditions, non-compliance with fire safety measures by the public, road traffic accidents, and electrical fault gas leakages, among others, as the cause of the fire outbreaks.

Mr. Julius Kuunuor, the Chief Fire Officer (CFO) of the GNFS, revealed this when the GNFS held its nine lessons and carols and Thanksgiving service in Accra on the theme; “Be an Agent of Peace.”

He said it was sad to note that as of December 18, 2024, 37 fire officers lost their lives and extended heartfelt condolences to family and friends.

The CFO stated that the GNFS this year embarked on several impactful initiatives, including a national bush fire campaign, Automated Fire Permit, and Certification Management System and commissioned the first phase of two Fire academies and training schools and several new Fire stations.

The rest of the initiatives are face-lift at the national headquarters, public fire safety education, vigorous fire safety audit, and inspection of public and commercial buildings to ensure that fire safety measures are upheld.

Mr Kuunuor said the GNFS remained committed to ensuring that their equipment was well maintained and personnel adequately trained to respond to emergencies during the festivities.

He said as part of fire safety, it was important for the public to avoid the use of fireworks, and ensure candles and decorative lights were used safely.

People need to switch off electrical appliances when not in use, refrain from leaving cooking unattended, and report a fire and related emergencies promptly by calling 112 or 192 or 0299 340 383 or 0302 277 2446, he added.

“The safety of Ghanaians depends on our readiness, and I assure you that we are prepared to handle fire and related emergencies across the country,” he assured.

The CFO assured that the GNFS would work with stakeholders to ensure that all fire safety protocols were obeyed to prevent further outbreaks.

The nine lessons and carols and Thanksgiving service witnessed scripture readings from the holy bible, musical performances, exhortation and intercessory prayers, as well as prayers for the peace of the country.

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In a Facebook post on Tuesday, 3 December 2024, the Service disassociated itself from the fraudulent activities.

“Fake appointment letters and prospectuses circulating on social media are not from the Ghana National Fire Service but the work of fraudsters,” the post emphasised.

GNFS has therefore urged applicants to exercise caution, remain vigilant and also report any suspicious activities.

“Applicants are advised to remain vigilant and report any such suspicious activities to the GNFS or the Police for immediate action,” the post added.

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Below is GNFS post:

The campaign, dubbed “Bush Fire Prevention Campaign,” is themed “Effective Bushfire Prevention: Stakeholders’ Role in Ensuring a Greener Tomorrow.”

Bushfire cases have risen significantly, with the country recording 658 incidents as of October 2024, compared to 569 cases in 2023.

According to the GNFS, 99% of these fires are caused by human activities, including arson (often motivated by unpaid loans or revenge) and palm wine tapping, particularly in the northern part of the country. Only a small percentage of the fires are due to natural causes.

Ghana, along with other members of the United Nations, has adopted the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, which aims to reduce disaster losses and ensure that capacity development programs in disaster risk reduction strengthen resilience.

Speaking at the launch of the 2024–2025 bushfire campaign, Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Julius A. Kuunuor emphasized the need for stakeholders, community leaders, farmers, and others to show unwavering commitment to curb bushfires and safeguard the future.

The event also included the handover of a Wildfire Rapid Intervention Vehicle, specially designed for Ghana’s bushfire response, by FIRE AID and International Development UK. Additional extrication tools and firefighting equipment worth £113,000 are awaiting clearance at the Tema Port, also provided by FIRE AID.

Minister for the Interior and Member of Parliament for Ayawaso Central, Hon. Henry Quartey, represented the government at the event and donated 19 pickup vehicles, four command vehicles, three Prado SUVs, and one Land Cruiser.

Below is a summary of the 2022, 2023, and 2024 comparative bushfire statistics from January to October:

The exercise is scheduled for 9 a.m. at the Fire Academy and Training School in Jamestown, Accra.

In a public notice, the GNFS stated that successful applicants would undergo body selection, documentation, and medical examinations.

The body selection phase involves evaluating candidates’ physical suitability for fire service work, while documentation includes verification of birth and academic certificates.

Candidates who pass these stages will undergo medical examinations, the cost of which they are required to bear.

Meanwhile, unsuccessful applicants and the public have been cautioned against paying anyone claiming to guarantee recruitment, reminding them that no payments are required to secure a place.

The recruitment process, which began with a public announcement in August, aims to fill various roles within the service.

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Read the full statement below:

The situation is particularly dire in some northern parts of Ghana, where all available fire trucks are either faulty or out of use.

These alarming details were revealed in a response from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) to a Right to Information request submitted by JoyNews.

The GNFS’s responsibilities extend beyond firefighting to include road accident rescues, saving drowning victims, rescuing those trapped in collapsed buildings, flood rescue operations, and even dealing with bee attacks.

These are life-or-death situations where response time is crucial.

Despite the Fire Service’s claims of being well-prepared to combat fires, data on its firefighting equipment reveals significant challenges in fulfilling its duties effectively.

In a country of over 30.8 million people, only 248 fire engines are available. Alarmingly, 133 of these engines are either faulty or out of commission, representing 53.6 percent.

Common issues include engine malfunctions, brake faults, control board problems, and electrical faults.

The crisis is most severe in certain regions. Both the Upper East and Oti Regions face a 100 percent appliance failure rate. In the Volta Region, 15 out of 17 appliances are down.

The Upper West Region has 14 fire tenders, 12 of which are not operational. In Greater Accra, around 60 percent of fire engines are either faulty or out of use.

Critical areas such as Adenta, Abelemkpe, Trade Fair, and Tema Township are left with only one operational truck, which may also be in poor condition.

Even the National Headquarters is not spared, with six out of its eight engines faulty.

At Korle Bu, there is not a single operational truck. In Weija, the only fire appliance has broken down due to an engine fault.

Investigations revealed that this appliance was in such poor shape that it caught fire while on its way to respond to a fire outbreak in Kasoa a few months back, never reaching the scene.

In the Ashanti Region, 25 percent of the 24 fire trucks are either faulty or out of commission.

Kumasi Metro, Kumasi Regional HQ, Manhyia, and New Edubiase all have trucks with faulty engines.

As a result, the Fire Service struggles to respond to emergencies promptly, often arriving too late, with lives and property already destroyed by the time they reach the scene.

This problem is exacerbated by non-functioning fire hydrants in many parts of the country.

Consequently, less than 5,000 firefighters are currently operational despite there being more than 15,000 trained firefighters.

This crisis in Ghana’s firefighting capability underscores the urgent need for investment in equipment and infrastructure to ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.

The Fire Service’s ability to respond effectively to emergencies is critical, and immediate action is required to address these deficiencies.

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GNFS has vowed to take strict legal action against the perpetrators and defend its personnel at all costs.

In a press release on Monday, the Service recounted the numerous attacks on personnel in the past few days.

It said on September 3, ADO Il Abdul Aziz Annor, a firefighter from the Ministries Fire Station, was attacked by a driver and his mate while replenishing the Station’s fire truck at La Palm T-Junction in Accra.

ADOII suffered a fractured ankle, and he is currently receiving treatment at the 37 Military Hospital, with surgery scheduled for later this week.

Two days later, officers from the Dansoman Fire Station faced verbal and physical assault by residents while responding to a fire near the Dansoman Roundabout.

The incident occurred when the fire truck had temporarily left to replenish its water supply.

Despite the attack, the firefighters managed to contain the blaze with the assistance of two additional fire trucks, preventing further damage to nearby properties.

“The matter has been reported to the Dansoman Police, and investigations are ongoing to bring the perpetrators to justice.

“The GNFS reminds the public that assaulting firefighters is unlawful and will be met with strict legal action. Our personnel risk their lives daily to protect citizens and property, and they deserve respect and support from the public,” it said.

Meanwhile, management has pledged to provide the best care for the injured firefighter and take legal action to ensure justice for all affected personnel.

They have also cautioned the public that the Service will use every legal means to protect its personnel while they are performing their duties.

“Our personnel risk their lives daily to protect citizens and property,” the statement said, “and they deserve respect and support from the public.”

Source: Adomonline.com

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The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has issued this warning due to a lack of essential firefighting tools.

Assistant Division Officer Alex King Nartey from the Public Affairs Department of the GNFS in an interview aired on Joy FM’s Midday news on Friday, June 7 emphasized the severe constraints the service faces.

He also admitted their current inability to effectively respond to potential fires.

“The fire tender at Dodowa has been out of commission for some months now, so whenever there is fire in Dodowa, the tender moves from Kpone Katamanso. The alarming one is that from Achimota to Nsawam, there is no functional fire tender.

On the stretch from Ayi Mensah all through to Akropong Akwapim, Mampong, and the rest, there is just one fire tender. It is a devastating situation,” he lamented.

Alex Nartey stressed the urgent need for assistance to retool the GNFS stations to adequately respond to emergencies.

Also, the Executive Secretary of the Bureau of Public Safety, Dr. Nana Yaw Akwadaa, partly blamed the leadership of the GNFS for its current woes.

He urged the Defence and Interior Committee of Parliament to summon the Chief Fire Officer to address the issue and find solutions.

Dr. Akwadaa also questioned whether officers stationed in areas without fire tenders are drawing salaries from the public purse without performing any duties.

“I believe Parliament should summon the Chief Fire Officer immediately and ask him for a plan to address this issue. We cannot continue like this and live at the mercy of, respectfully, reckless leadership.

“Look at the areas mentioned; thousands of people live there, and if one community is razed by fire, do you know the cost to the State? It is disgraceful for a public safety institution to neglect its responsibilities for this long,” he said.

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This was after their pumps failed following the incident, which occurred around 5:50 pm.

In a statement, GNFS, received a distress call at about 5:55 pm and swiftly moved to the scene.

Despite the prompt dispatch, the crew encountered challenges as the pump failed to engage upon arrival at 6:10 pm, causing them to use buckets of water provided by residents to combat the flames.

The fire, suspected to have been caused by an electrical fault, engulfed four shops, completely destroying two and partially damaging two others.

Items destroyed included plastic cups, bowls and spoons, takeaway packs, toilet rolls, and polytene bags.

Although several adjoining shops were saved and no injuries were reported, the inferno inflicted significant damage before being brought under control at 6:26 pm.

The fire was finally extinguished at 6:45pm, emphasising the indispensable role of community assistance in firefighting endeavours.

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The suspect, according to the service, uses the telephone number 0532410095.

In a statement, GNFS noted it is not recruiting or has hired any agent or persons to conduct recruitment on its behalf.

The Service has assured that when clearance is given for recruitment, it will, first of all, advertise in the national dailies giving requirements and procedures to be followed.

“Be vigilant and do not fall for these fake recruitment scams on social media knowing that GNFS will not advertise its recruitment or enlistment exercise on social media.

“DO NOT PAY ANY MONEY TO ANYONE but REPORT these fraudulent pages on social media and unscrupulous individuals to the relevant Security Agencies for swift action,” the service admonished.

The general public have been directed to reach to GNFS with their inquiries via 0299341436 during working hours 08:00 am to 4:00 pm from Monday to Friday.

“Do follow us on Facebook via Ghana National Fire Service with 66K+ ONLY for authentic information on the GNFS,” it added.

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Below is the statement:

Take it from us, GNFS is not recruiting. Be vigilant and Do not fall for these FAKE RECRUITMENT SCAMS.

Report these fraudulent pages to the relevant Security Agencies for swift action.#fakenews #fakerecruitmentpages #fakegnfsrecruitmentnews #reportrecruitmentfraudforaction pic.twitter.com/CiDUXb7pSi

— Ghana National Fire Service (@gnfsofficial) February 15, 2024

The incidents, which overstretched the operations of the Service, happened between January and November 2023.

This was revealed at the Thanksgiving Service of the Service’s 60th Anniversary Celebration, where senior officers who just retired were awarded for their selfless contributions to the Service.

Mr. Julius Kuunuor, Chief Fire Officer (CFO), said the prank calls had put the rescuers’ lives in danger and created room for waste of fuel.

“When we engage in prank calls, we put incident responders at risk and waste fuel as well,” he said.

Mr. Kuunuor urged the public to desist from such practices because the Service would not entertain such deviant behaviours in 2024 and beyond.

Fire outbreaks also reduced by 4.92 percent for the first eleven months of 2023, with 5256 incidents recorded as compared to 5,530 incidents recorded in the same period in 2022.

The Chief Fire Officer attributed the reduction to the extensive Public Fire Safety Education carried out nationwide.

“Through the timely intervention of the Service, property worth millions of cedis was salvaged,” he said.

The Service intends to build clinics in all the regions and will start the construction of a Fire Trauma Hospital to provide adequate healthcare for personnel and the public this year.

It is in the process of signing a Memorandum of Understanding with some universities to train Fire personnel in the relevant fields from undergraduate to postgraduate programs.

The University of Cape Coast, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA), and the University of Energy and Natural Resources are being engaged for the training.

“The Service, in collaboration with the Government, is in the process of procuring Fire Appliances and Equipment, including Dual Purpose Tenders, Water Tankers, Rapid Intervention Vehicles, and Utility Vehicles and Command Vehicles in 2024,” Mr. Kuunuor said.

The new appliances will replace the obsolete fire appliances at the Fire Stations and also ensure the opening of more Fire Stations to improve response time.

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According to the Service, defective washers cause cylinder leakages which mostly lead to domestic fires.

The Head of Public Relations, ACFO1 Timothy Osafo Affum disclosed this on Adom FM’s morning show, Dwaso Nsem when he shared fire safety tips.

He stated that, people put stones on their cylinders in their bid to avoid leakages but that doesn’t solve the problem.

“The washers on the market lately are not good so I will entreat the public to change them anytime they go to fill their gas to stop leakage. It cost about GH₵3 and that will go a long way to avoid fire outbreaks,” he admonished.

In a related development, Mr. Affum said there has been a consistent drop in fire outbreaks due to the aggressive media campaign and education.

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The Director of Finance and Administration at the Interior Ministry, Doreen Payin Annan who read a speech on behalf of the Interior Minister, Ambrose Dery called for collaborative efforts to continuously reduce bush-fires while calling for the enforcement of the Control and Prevention of Bush-fires Act – 1990 (PNDCL 229).

“The government, on its part, is not sparing any effort to protect our natural landscape from the destructive forces of bush-fires. The protection of our environment, our communities, and the safety of our citizens is our solemn duty.”

“I will further urge the Ghana National Fire Service to give life to the Control and Prevention of Bush-fires Act-1990 (PNDCL 229). Defaulters of this law do not have any more excuses after 33 years of sensitisation and education for which they cannot be held responsible for their actions if they go contrary to the law,” she said.

The Chief Fire Officer, Julius Aalebkure Kuunuor said the Service recorded a reduction of bush-fires by 27.5 per cent for the 10-month period of the year 2023.

In spite of this progress, according to him, over 75,000 hectares of vegetation and forest cover across the country were destroyed through bush-fires annually.

“The loss of vegetation according to the Service contributes to a three percent loss to the country’s gross domestic product.

However, this year, a significant reduction of 218 representing 27.5 percent has been recorded for the first three quarters.

From January to October 2023, 583 bush-fires were recorded as against 791 for the same 10-month period in 2022,” he revealed.

He explained that 60 percent of the country’s population relied on agriculture, adding that disruption to the sector can have severe implications for the economy.

“Bush-fires pose a significant threat to our environment, destroying vast areas of vegetation, wildlife habitats, and farmlands. The consequences of these are far-reaching, affecting not only natural resources but also our food security.

“Ghana relies heavily on agriculture, as 60 percent of the population is involved in it. Any disruption has severe implications on the economy and well-being of our people,” he stated.

The rain left parts of the country, including Greater Accra, Tema, and parts of the Central region, flooded.

The Service, in a statement, said it promptly responded to 12 rescue incidents across five regions.

Despite the positive outcomes of the rescue operations, the lifeless body of a 40-year-old man was recovered in a gutter at Madina.

GNFS pledged to continuously work diligently to mitigate the impact of adverse weather conditions and ensure the safety and well-being of citizens in such challenging circumstances.

Meanwhile, the Service cautioned the public, especially those in flood-prone areas, to take the necessary precaution of moving to higher ground to prevent further loss of lives and properties.

Read the full statement below:

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Similarly, 662 fire outbreaks were recorded within six months as against 640 fires within the same period last year, representing three percent increase in the fire outbreaks attributed to human behavior in the region.

The Accra Regional Com­mander of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) Grade One, Roberta Aggrey Ghanson, disclosed this at an engagement with journalists in Accra yesterday to discuss issues related to fire outbreaks in the region.

It also formed part of this year’s fire educational campaign to create fire safety awareness to the public.

The programme, which was on the theme “60 years of existence, fire safety: the choice for safer environment”, brought together Municipal Fire Commanders, senior and junior officers from the regional command.

ACFO I Ghanson said domes­tic fires top the cases with 234 as compared to 197 fires in 2022, representing an increase of three per cent, all attributable to human behaviour.

She stated that the media had contributed immensely in bringing the Service’s vision to bare consid­ering its function of educating the public.

ACFO1 Ghanson said the Com­mand also in the first half of 2023 responded to 22 rescue incidents as well as 22 road traffic accidents.

She said the estimated cost of damages caused by fire outbreaks in the first half of this year was GH¢34,590,914.00.

ACFO1 Ghanson said the Gha­na National fire Service (GNFS) would sensitise members of the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies and market women.

She said the Service would also inspect national installations, undertake stimulation exercise, and meet with operators of event cen­tres, club houses, drinking spots and night clubs.

The Accra Regional Fire Safety Officer, Divisional Officer Grade One (DOI), Evans Osei Owusu, stated that the role of the media was crucial in addressing fire safety issues in the country.

He urged journalists to col­laborate with the GNFS in its education drive to ensure that lives and properties were saved in the country.

DOI Owusu urged the public to desist from attacking GNFS personnel while on duty.

The Deputy Director of Oper­ations, DOI Joseph Kofi Forson, mentioned accessibility, inadequate source of water, negative attitudes as some of the things affecting GNFS’ operations.

He urged the public to make fire safety a priority, which according to him was a shared responsibility.

A representative from the Gha­na Institute of Architects, Mr Da­vid Parkins, commended personnel of the GNFS for ensuring that lives and properties were saved even at the peril of the own lives.

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In January 2023, a total of 827 fire outbreaks were recorded, this figure, however, reduced to 728 in February a decrease of 99 representing 11.9%, 622 fire outbreaks were recorded in March a decrease of 106 representing 14.5% and in April 506 incidents recorded a decrease by 116 representing 18.6%, in May.

The incidents came further down to 428 a decrease by 78 representing 15.4% and in June it trickled down to 337 cases a decrease by 91 representing 21.3%.

According to the Chief Fire Officer, intensive media fire safety campaigns, floats and fire safety education in second-cycle schools, institutions, lorry stations, religious bodies and other places of public congregations across the country have yielded positive results.

Speaking at the inauguration of the Larteh Fire Station, Chief Fire Officer, Julius A. Kuunor, indicated that the command is hopeful that beneficiaries of these fire safety campaigns will share their knowledge with family and friends to expand public awareness creation and help reduce fire incidents to the barest minimum by December 2023.

Minister of Interior, Ambrose Dery, who lauded the efforts of all stakeholders who donated to the office complex indicated that government will continue to partner with private individuals and organizations to provide fire cover for all communities.

He added that the support of the government remains a priority to help the fire command achieve its mandate as plans are far advanced for the retooling of the fire service.

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The surgery was to remove a complex tumour in his forehead.

The intervention was after the firefighter stationed at the Sekondi Metro Fire Station in the Western Region sought assistance through his Regional Fire Officer, ACFO I Frederick Ohemeng.

The Chief Fire Officer (CFO) and his Management supported him with GHC 62,150.00 to cover the full cost of the surgery.

He successfully went through two surgeries on July 26, 2022, and December 28, 2022, respectively.

LFM Darmoe, who is doing well after the surgery, has expressed appreciation to CFO Julius A. Kuunuor and his Management Team, the National Welfare Directorate, and the Western Regional Command for coming to his aid.

In a statement, the Service said it has taken the behaviour of the uniformed personnel seriously and has set up a tribunal for the investigation.

The statement added management takes exception to this and other related behaviour and will apply the necessary sanctions to any officer who brings the name of the service into disrepute.

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The Service has, therefore, urged the public to report any staff who misconducts him or herself and cautioned officers to abide by the outfit’s disciplinary regulations.

Below is the full statement:

According to the Deputy Public Relations Officer, DFO3 Desmond Ackah, firefighters arrived at the scene six minutes after the incident.

However, speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem show, DFO3 Ackah indicated they could not access the market to put off the fire due to the congested nature of the place.

“They called us at 4:35 and at 4:41, we were already there and could have arrived in less than a minute because our headquarters is just a stone throw from Kantamanto.

“But the whole place has been blocked with foss, shoes and other items on sale. So we had to move around looking for an entry point and we should know the fire will continue to spread and not wait for us,” he said.

The inferno destroyed several shops and property worth thousands of cedis with the cause yet to be established.

The affected traders were along the Railway line and mostly deal in second-hand clothing with more than 2,000 shops destroyed.

Against this backdrop, he stated it is about time market managers put in place strict measures to avert such situations if they should happen in the area.

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The aftermath of Kantamanto market fire [Photos]

He also added it is about time government demolishes various markets in the capital and redevelop them as they are in a bad state.

“We have rolled out a task force and to train people on how to deploy firefighters and put off the fire when it starts,” he added.

The cause of the incident, which occurred on Wednesday, is yet to be known but no casualty was recorded.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) dispatched six fire engines to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other shops.

In a statement, GNFS said accessibility to the affected shops was a challenge due to hardcore burglar proofing.

The electricity power supply in the area was isolated to enhance rigorous firefighting and prevent the possible risk of electrocution of firefighters.

It took firefighters a little over an hour to douse the fire which destroyed several highly combustible cosmetic products.

A fireman with the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), who did the unexpected inside a supermarket, thinking his action was hidden, held his head in disbelief when a video of his conduct was played back to him before his superiors.

The shop stands on the edge of a road which joins the Bolgatanga-Navrongo Highway from the direction of the Upper East Regional Hospital. It is painted in a deep shade of green and nailed atop its roof is an upright board boldly showing its trade name― Joy Step Supermarket.

The fireman, Ibrahim Mohammed Alemiakurugo, had joined a number of shoppers at the store on the hot and humid night of June 1, 2022.

Shortly after the fireman had stepped out of the shop, a polo-shirted young man, who had bought items at the store earlier and left, reappeared. He is Mohammed Sidi, a computer technician fairly familiar with some Bolgatanga residents.

With long strides and feverish haste, the young man made his way back into the supermarket. He looked very desperate.

He approached the sales clerks with a complaint that his mobile phone― a black Tecno smartphone― had gone missing. He told them he might have left it on the counter while paying for the goods he had bought.

His complaint interrupted sales activities temporarily. An unusual scene was created in the shop as a search for the phone began. But the sales staff had first asked among themselves who possibly was responsible for the disappearance of the device.

While the search was underway, the customer-turned-complainant stood speechless in front of the counter. Filled with disquiet, he ran his fingers through his hair and let out a long sigh of despair from time to time.

His worry was not just about the contacts on the missing phone. He had been contracted to execute some graphic-design projects under a strict deadline. The tasks had been completed but had not been forwarded yet to his impatiently waiting clients. Those pieces of work were on that smartphone, too.

The search was taking so long with no hope of recovery. But suddenly, the frustrated customer himself suggested that the sales personnel go into the store’s security camera system and view the footage recorded from his first visit onwards.

They abandoned the search upon that advice and moved to a desktop computer connected to the Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) system in the variety store.

An Unlikely Suspect Uncovered

All eyes were trained on the 12-inch screen of the security monitor. A string of clips was chosen from a file of video recordings on the computer. Then, a finger hit the playback button.

A uniformed customer appeared on the screen. His service cap was not on his head. The black beret was rather stuck halfway into a pocket at the back of his trousers and was partially hanging out from under his untucked shirt like a tail.

The officer walked through a passageway in the store and stopped in front of a stocked shelf. He picked a roll of powdered milk sachets from the rack, folded it and placed it back on the shelf. Then, he went for another roll of a different brand of powdered milk on the same shelf.

He stretched his neck and gazed over the top of the shelf in a manner quite similar to how somebody who is about to commit an offence would first check to see if they are being watched.

He then observed the product. Again, he stretched his neck over the top of the shelf with a watchful eye. Then, he folded the roll, thrust it into his left trouser pocket and pulled down his shirt to conceal it.

He kept looking over the top of the rack while using both hands to adjust his shirt to ensure that the items he had pushed into the pocket were well hidden.

The clip also showed him picking two more rolls. But he dropped those ones just before another customer appeared and joined him at the shelf.

Another scene involving the same firefighter came into view on the screen. This time, he was at the counter, where the complainant had suspected he left the phone. He was holding in his right hand a baked food item wrapped in a transparent polybag and staring indecisively at it.

At that point, the complainant appeared, walking towards the counter in a white polo shirt and a pair of black trousers. Slim and dark in complexion, Sidi was seen holding a black smartphone to his left ear with his left hand as he approached the checkout.

Upon arrival at the counter, he pulled out some notes from his pockets. He placed the phone on the countertop and began to check the money.

While the young man was checking the notes, the fire officer placed the baked food item beside a sachet of premix tea powder which was already on the countertop. He reached for a black polybag on the counter, removed a loaf of bread from the bag and placed the bread on a shelf that was standing within arm’s reach.

Sidi was seen making payment. But he left the phone on top of the counter after making the payment. He took his change and turned his back on the phone. But he remained around the checkout, looking in every direction except his back. The fire officer stood a few customers near the counter. He was doing nothing except just looking and turning around within the same spot.

After a while, he drew closer to the counter. He looked around again and, certain that nobody was watching him, covered the phone with a black polybag and thrust the phone together with the polybag into the pocket of his trousers. He took the phone from the counter just before its owner picked up his own bag and left the shop.

Search and Investigation

After watching the footage, the owners of the supermarket were initially not quite sure that the man captured pilfering inside their shop was a fire officer. And none among those who had the firsthand view of it immediately knew where to find him.

One of the store’s managers, Joyceline Abiire, related the development to a relation who is also a fire officer at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) national headquarters in Accra.

“I forwarded the video to him and asked him if it was their uniform,” she told The Fourth Estate. “He looked at it and confirmed that it was their uniform.”

“He reported the matter at the national level. Then, they called the Regional Commander here. My interest was to get the customer’s phone back to him.”

Subsequently, the Upper East Regional Fire Commander, ACFO Anthony Gyasi Boateng, reached out to Abiire by phone. He promised to dispatch a team to the supermarket to conduct an investigation into the reported act.

Following that telephone conversation, the team visited the store and addressed its inquiries to the staff.

But before the visit, the Regional Commander had received clips of the footage from the national head office and summoned the fireman to his office.

“I brought him here,” the Regional Commander told The Fourth Estate, pointing at an upholstered seat in his office with a glow of disappointment in his eyes. “The video was shown to him. He confirmed he was the one in the video and he admitted the offence.”

“We set up a committee. They met him. All that he said was put on paper and we forwarded it to our head office.”

The Regional Commander also retrieved some of the stolen items from him― the mobile phone and the rolls of powdered milk and premix tea powder—before the team visited the supermarket. The man had consumed some of the milk and tea.

The mobile phone, which had remained switched off for weeks since the day it was taken away from its owner, and the remaining food items were sent back to the supermarket by the investigation team. The team paid back Gh¢20:40p to the store for the already-used items.

Soon after the enquiry visit, the fireman was interdicted, pending a final decision by the GNFS national headquarters.

“I least suspected that the person who stole it was a fire officer,” said Sidi in an interview with The Fourth Estate after the retrieval of his phone. “I was worried and angry about the loss. It affected my business.”

“People had given me some work to do, but because I couldn’t do it on time due to the absence of the phone, they had to take the work elsewhere. Some wanted to give me some fresh work to do but my line was off when they called me. They, too, changed their minds. I lost those coins that could have been mine.”

Dismissal and reactions

Several GNFS officers say they are crestfallen because Alemiakurugo was wearing the service uniform when he committed the act.

“If he was in mufti, it may have been a different story,” the Regional Commander said. “But in uniform, in fact, it’s so pathetic for us.”

On July 17, 2022, the fireman was fired. The GNFS’ Public Relations Officer in the Upper East Region, DOIII Callistus Nibunu, confirmed the dismissal to The Fourth Estate.

He also shared in the worry voiced by the Regional Commander that the development had significantly dented the image of the GNFS.

“Conclusive evidence was made that he committed the act, so his dismissal letter came. The act was committed in uniform. That sends a very bad signal as far as the image of the service is concerned.

“No organisation will want to be tagged with such an act. It’s indeed a dent on the image of the service and the service has also used the Legislative Instrument 1725, which we are all bounded by, to apply the appropriate punishment as expected,” he said.

The Regional Commander disclosed that the dismissal came just when the fireman was about to take his first-ever promotion examination. He would have been promoted from Fireman (FM) to Leading Fireman (LFM) if he had taken the examination and had passed.

Reacting to his dismissal, the fire officer described the punishment as “too harsh”. He said the eyes of some of his coworkers were filled with tears of sympathy after he received his release letter on Saturday, July 30, 2022.

“It is true that it happened. But I thought the committee would have tempered justice with mercy. I don’t want to go scot-free, but the dismissal is too harsh,” he said.

He added: “Recently, an officer stole our office items in the Savannah Region. You reduced his rank. You didn’t dismiss him. As a first-time offender, they should have taken my salaries for some months.”

Opinions are divided in the region over the removal of the firefighter from office. Some residents say anything less than firing would have been a disappointing outcome.

“It shouldn’t end at dismissal. He should be prosecuted. Once it has been established that he stole the things, I think the laws of Ghana need to follow,” remarked Eric Abambire Nsoh, a healthcare worker.

For some, he ought to face punishment not only for the damage done to the image of the GNFS but also for some possible financial losses the victims of his theft may have suffered. But they think his dismissal is too severe for a married man.

“I’m of the view that the rule of law has not been applied. I condemn what he did. But this is petty stealing. He should be punished but not to the extent of dismissal. I think a reduction of rank, or transfer, would be fine.

“We know people who have done worse things in the fire service and are still in the service. The rule of law has not been applied because if he had been taken through the law court, it wouldn’t have ended in dismissal but in being fined. The fire service has no right to dismiss him because no court of competent jurisdiction has found him guilty yet,” an educationist, Tii-roug  Zumah Yaro, opined.

These acts included “vacation of post and recruitment fraud.”

The dismissed officers included two senior and nine junior officers.

They were stationed across various regional and district commands.

In a statement signed by Mr. Osafo-Affum, Public Relations Officer, the Service assured of its “commitment to uphold disciplinary standards and shall take appropriate action against recalcitrant officers.”

“Management would also like to encourage the general public to report any acts of indiscipline against any personnel of the Service or call the Public Relations Department on 0299341436 for enquiries, clarifications or complaints,” the Fire Service urged.

The Service said these fire outbreaks are estimated in terms of cost and damage to property at GHS30,197,948.20.

This is a rise against the same period last year with 3,030 fires with a corresponding estimated cost of damage to property at GHS24,236,113.

The GNFS also indicated that the cost of items salvaged from these fires amounted to GHS7,997,729,00 for the period under review as against GHS528,632.00 for the same period in 2021.

“An average of 20 fires were recorded in a day during the first half year of 2022 as against 17 for the same period in 2021. Some 35 lives were unfortunately lost in 2022 through these fires.

“Some 185 deaths were recorded through road traffic collision incidents as against 2022 for the same period in 2021.”

Meanwhile, the Ashanti Region recorded the highest number of 722 fires which represent 19.63% of the total fires for the first half year of 2022.

It was followed closely by Greater Acera Region with 690 which represent 18.76% while Volta Region recorded the lowest figure of l6 fires representing 0.44%.

The Service noted that some of the causes of these fires are “electrical faults which stem from circuit overload; arcing: short circuits; inferior cables; compromised or poorly done electrical installations; over-aged wires and earthing problems: Gas leakages; unattended cooking: unattended lit candles; mosquito coils: matches und poorly done hot works from welding and deliberate acts.”

“The fires recorded suggest a downward trend from 1090 in January to 342 in June 2022.

The high number of out-on-arrival cases of 1,091 also suggests that the education and sensitization programs of the Service are impacting positively on the general public as they are now able to manage small fires.”

It has, however, attributed an increase in the fires to the harsh harmattan weather experienced in the first three months of the year 2022 and non-adherence to basic fire safety precautions, especially in our domestic settings.

These he explained are the side effects of the excessive heat they come into contact in their line of duty but do not have the necessary protective clothing and equipment for their work.

Mr Affum who is the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of GNFS made the disclosure on Adom TV’s The BigAgenda, show.

He also bemoaned fire-resistant jackets Ghana has at the moment have all expired.

In addition, the outfit he said has no single fireboat despite it being crucial equipment in their rescue operations on water bodies – which is an integral part of the GNFS duties.

His revelations are on the back of a stunning report that as many as 61 persons died in firefighting in 2021.

But setting the records straight, he noted the number includes both fire officers and persons who lost their lives through fire incidents.

“Last year, we had three fire officers die in their line of duty notably was the incident at Agona Swedru where personnel drowned. There was another in Asanti and Western Regions,” he said.

Play the attached audio below for more:

GNFS in a statement has assured it will give the victims the best medical attention.

The accident occurred after a motorcycle and the fire tender they were travelling on collided at a section of the Kwame Danso-Atebubu road in the Bono East Region on Tuesday.

The fire officers were responding to a distress fire call at Atebubu.

One person, the pillion rider, is reported to have died on the spot following the crash.

The fire tender lost its balance and summersaulted thrice on the highway, landing on its roof in a nearby bush.

Four of the victims have been referred to Techiman Holy Family Hospital for further treatment.

But the statement has indicated the Service Council and the Interior Minister have put in place plans to airlift the affected fire fighters to Accra for further medical attention.

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“Management wishes once again to assure the entire personnel of the Service and the public that, the safety of firemen remains the ultimate priority and we will continue to ensure a safe and conducive working environment for all personnel,” the statement signed by the Head of Public Relations, Osafo-Affum, read.

Read the statement below:

This was in a joint intelligence-based operation with the Ghana Police Service on Friday.

A viral video posted by the GNFS, which captured the moment of arrest, saw scores of prospective applicants at the Day and Night Hotel.

According to the GNFS, the prospective applicants had paid various amounts of monies to the suspected fraudsters to facilitate their entry into the service.

Numbering about 100, the suspects were taking them through what they were made to believe was a recruitment process.

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The gang has since been arrested and sent to the Police Headquarters for further interrogation.

Play the audio attached for more:

The fire officers were said to have made away with the money after working at the scene of a car crash that led to the death of the paramount chief of Sekyere Kwamang Traditional Area, Barima Bretwum Okyere Bediako II on December 22, 2021.

Speaking to Citi News, the Public Relations Officer of the Fire Service, A.C.F.O. Timothy Osafo Affum, said an internal investigative committee is expected to complete work into the matter on Monday.

“When issues of this nature happen, a board of enquiry is set up. The officers in grave offences like what we have now are interdicted so that they do not interfere with the investigation. If we finish the investigations, and they are found culpable, we will hand them over to the police.”

“If there is no criminality involved, then we will go through our normal processes and give them the punishment [or whatsoever] they deserve.“

Engineer Emmanuel Johnson, the Chief Manager in-charge of Accra East Region, disclosed this in an interview with Adom News, following a fire incident at the Makola market.

The Accra Mayor, Mohammed Adjei Sowa, on the day of the incident, said fire fighters had to travel to Circe, Kaneshie and other parts of the capital in search of water.

They explained the hydrants within the central business district were non-functional.

But, according to Mr Johnson, there are about 70 hydrants out of which 11 are within the Accra Central Business District, hence, GNFS cannot make claims of lack of water in times of crisis.

In view of this, he has urged the fire service to stop shifting blame for its inability to douse the Makola market fire on time.

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“GWCL as a company cannot be dragged into the Makola market fire brouhaha because there are enough water hydrants at the central business district. So they must accept responsibility for failing to quench the Makola Fire,” he said.