In a decisive move to safeguard Ghana’s firefighters from rising cases of assault and sabotage, the Minister for the Interior, Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka, has announced the formation of a special committee that will coordinate with security agencies to provide armed escort and protection for fire service personnel operating in high-risk zones.
The minister made this announcement during the national observance of International Firefighters’ Day, held at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) headquarters in Accra.
The event, marked by solemn reflection and spirited celebration, honoured the bravery and sacrifice of Ghanaian firefighters.
“We are witnessing a disturbing increase in attacks on our firefighters, with twelve reported cases last year alone, up from eight the year before,” the minister revealed. “These attacks, ranging from physical assaults to the vandalism of firefighting equipment, are a direct threat to national safety. This cannot and will not be tolerated.”
Communities identified as hotspots for these attacks include Konongo-Odumase, Kumasi-Moshie Zongo, Atebubu, Labadi, and Dansoman.
In total, 21 firefighters sustained serious injuries in 2024, including broken limbs, deep cuts, and trauma. Equipment destruction has also hampered timely emergency responses.
To counter this, the Interior Minister pledged to work closely with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to deploy a dedicated task force that will accompany GNFS crews into volatile areas.
“This special security task force will ensure that no firefighter ever responds to an emergency in fear for their life,” Hon. Muntaka said, emphasizing that the government will not allow those who protect the nation to become victims of senseless violence.
The announcement aligns with this year’s theme: “Appreciating Our Heroes: Say No to Firefighter Assault and Firefighting Truck Vandalism.” The minister’s remarks urged not only security action but also a moral awakening among citizens.
“This is a national call to action,” he said. “Religious leaders, traditional authorities, and civil society must condemn these attacks. No firefighter should ever be harmed for answering a call to save lives.”
As part of broader reforms, the Interior Ministry also pledged to collaborate with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to expand fire station coverage nationwide and expedite the provision of modern equipment, including drones, rapid intervention vehicles, and firefighting aircraft.
The event also celebrated the appointment of Acting Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sapong, Ghana’s first female fire chief, who was praised for implementing effective night patrols and intensifying public safety education.
As Muntaka concluded: “Today is a day of recommitment—a promise by the government to support our firefighters, and by society to protect those who protect us. Firefighters are not just responders; they are national heroes.”
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