GNFS Thinks The Kantamanto Fire May Have Been Caused By Electrical Fault Or Arson

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has revealed that the devastating fire outbreak at Kantamanto Market in Accra could have been caused by either arson or an electrical fault. The fire, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, destroyed several shops, leaving traders and business owners counting their losses.

Addressing the media at the scene, the GNFS spokesperson stated that while investigations are ongoing, preliminary assessments suggest that the fire could have been started intentionally or as a result of an electrical malfunction.

Extent of Damage

The fire, which raged for hours before being brought under control, has left a trail of destruction in one of Accra’s busiest trading hubs. Dozens of shops and stalls were reduced to ashes, with goods worth millions of cedis destroyed. Many traders, some of whom rely on daily sales for their livelihoods, have been left devastated by the incident.

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Eyewitnesses reported seeing thick smoke and flames engulfing parts of the market shortly after midnight. Despite the prompt response by the GNFS, the tightly packed nature of the market made it challenging to contain the blaze quickly.

Investigative Efforts

The GNFS has assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the fire. “We are looking at all possible angles, including arson and an electrical fault,” the spokesperson said.

Electrical fires are not uncommon in markets like Kantamanto, where illegal connections and overloaded circuits are prevalent. However, reports of suspected arson in previous market fires across the country have raised concerns among traders and authorities alike.

“We urge the traders to cooperate with our team as we carry out this investigation. We need their input to determine what might have caused the fire and to prevent future occurrences,” the GNFS representative added.

Traders Demand Answers

The fire has reignited calls from traders for better safety measures in markets across Ghana. Many expressed frustration over the frequency of market fires, which they believe could be minimized with proper infrastructure, including fire hydrants, well-maintained electrical systems, and routine safety inspections.

“We have lost everything,” lamented one trader. “Traders need the government and city authorities to step in and address these recurring fires. We cannot keep rebuilding from scratch.”

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Call for Safety Measures

In response to the incident, local authorities have pledged to enhance fire safety measures in the market. Plans include inspecting electrical systems, creating fire breaks to limit the spread of future fires, and conducting fire safety training for traders.

The GNFS also advised traders to report any suspicious activities and to avoid illegal electrical connections, which often increase the risk of fires.

Conclusion

The fire at Kantamanto Market is a tragic reminder of the vulnerabilities that many markets in Ghana face. While the exact cause of the fire is yet to be confirmed, the GNFS’s focus on arson or electrical faults underscores the need for vigilance and improved safety measures in public trading spaces.

As investigations continue, traders and authorities must work together to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future, protecting livelihoods and the bustling economy of one of Accra’s most vibrant markets.