The Accra Timber Market, a bustling hub of commerce in Ghana’s capital city, was engulfed in flames in the early hours of Saturday, September 13th, 2024. The devastating inferno, which broke out near Ayalolo School at approximately 1:17 a.m., consumed numerous shops dealing in wooden planks and hardware, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The rapid response of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) was crucial in containing the blaze and preventing further damage to surrounding properties.
Seven fire engines from various stations across Accra were swiftly mobilized to the scene, bolstered by a GNFS water tanker and two additional tankers provided by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and Ablekuma Municipal Assembly. This concerted effort allowed firefighters to gain control of the raging inferno, eventually containing the flames by 6:26 a.m. and achieving full extinguishment by 11:44 a.m. While the fire caused significant damage within the market, the firefighters’ tireless efforts successfully shielded nearby structures, including the Ayalolo cluster of schools, from the encroaching flames.
In the aftermath of the fire, investigations were immediately launched to determine the cause of the devastating blaze. ACFO II Rashid Kwame Nisawu, the Greater Accra Regional Commander of the GNFS, revealed that intelligence gathered during firefighting operations pointed to a suspect who allegedly started a rubbish fire and then abandoned it, inadvertently triggering the conflagration. As standard practice during major fire incidents, plainclothes officers were deployed to gather information and witness accounts. Their efforts led to the identification of a man who had reportedly set fire to a pile of rubbish and subsequently left the scene. The unattended fire then escalated and spread rapidly through the highly flammable materials within the timber market, resulting in the widespread destruction witnessed.
Acting swiftly on this lead, police apprehended the suspect and took him into custody at the James Town Police Station. The suspect’s arrest was confirmed by the Police Commander in a report to the Chief Fire Officer, signifying a significant step forward in the investigation. While the suspect awaits further questioning and legal proceedings, the incident underscores the critical importance of fire safety awareness and responsible waste disposal practices. The seemingly innocuous act of setting fire to rubbish had far-reaching and devastating consequences, highlighting the potential for even small fires to quickly escalate into major incidents, particularly in environments with readily combustible materials.
The fire at the Accra Timber Market also serves as a testament to the bravery and dedication of the firefighters who risked their lives to combat the blaze and protect surrounding properties. Two firefighters sustained injuries during the operation – one suffered an electric shock while the other sustained burns to the arm. Fortunately, both received prompt medical treatment and were subsequently discharged. Their commitment and resilience in the face of danger exemplify the vital role that firefighters play in safeguarding communities from the devastating impact of fire.
The incident has undoubtedly left a significant impact on the traders and businesses operating within the Accra Timber Market. The loss of property and livelihoods will require extensive efforts to rebuild and recover. Moving forward, it will be crucial to implement enhanced fire safety measures and infrastructure within the market to prevent future incidents. This may include improved fire suppression systems, stricter regulations regarding waste disposal, and comprehensive fire safety training for traders and market personnel. The investigation into the fire’s cause will continue, and the legal process involving the apprehended suspect will unfold according to due process. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, responsible behavior, and the devastating consequences that can arise from seemingly minor acts of negligence.
