Twelve personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) were injured while battling a fuel tanker fire that escalated into an explosion at Gomoa Potsin in the Central Region.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 17, when firefighters were carrying out cooling operations after initially bringing the blaze under control. According to the GNFS, the fire suddenly reignited, triggering an explosion that caught the responders in close range.
Out of the 12 injured officers, four sustained serious injuries. Three were transferred to the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital for further treatment, while another received care at the Potsin Polyclinic. The remaining eight firefighters, who suffered minor injuries, were treated at the scene.
The affected tanker, with registration number GT 5671-22, was transporting about 54,000 litres of petrol when it caught fire under circumstances that are still under investigation.
Emergency services were alerted at approximately 5:58 a.m., prompting a rapid response from fire crews stationed in Apam and Kasoa, with additional support from a private water tanker. Firefighters arrived at the scene around 6:26 a.m. to find the tanker fully engulfed, with flames spreading to nearby structures.
After nearly two hours of intensive firefighting, the blaze was successfully contained, preventing what authorities say could have been a much more destructive incident for the surrounding community.
Fortunately, the tanker driver and his assistant escaped without injury.
The GNFS has assured the public that it is closely monitoring the condition of the injured personnel and will provide the necessary support for their recovery. The Service also commended the coordinated efforts of all responding agencies and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
Source: Africa Publicity
