The devastating fire outbreak at Alabar-Frenchline Market in Kumasi claimed at least 100 structures and their contents, an official statement has revealed.
The statement issued by the Ghana National Fire Service on Sunday indicated that firefighters prevented further escalation, ultimately saving 250 structures, including wooden and metal containers, from the fierce fire.
“The fire, spreading rapidly, led to a request for assistance from four other pumps. Firefighters, led by Kwame Sarfo, successfully contained the blaze.
They finally knocked it out at 5:35 pm, overcoming challenges such as public obstruction, market congestion, and accessibility issues, the statement said.
“Ultimately, 250 market structures and their contents were saved from the fire’s devastation by the gallant and dexterous firefighters. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined. No casualty was determined,” the statement added.
At least five fire engines were deployed to contain the blaze, which spread quickly in the trading area due to the large amount of flammable items such as cooking oil and plastic.
Asaase News reports that affected victims joined the fire crew to douse the blaze while others stood helplessly as the inferno tore through their wares.
“I have lost everything,” said Rahman, a 40-year-old phone dealer. “I couldn’t pick [even] a charger.”
“Items running into millions of Ghanaian cedis have been destroyed by the blaze and this is very unfortunate.
“I had just secured a loan from the bank to fill my container only to be slapped with this tragedy. All my livelihoods are gone,” another victim told Asaase News amid tears.
Fires are common in densely populated Kumasi, which has seen a building boom in recent years, often without proper safety measures. Fires and explosions often occur due to faulty gas cylinders, air conditioners and bad electrical wiring.
In March, a fire at the Kumasi Kejetia Market injured some firefighters and burned down 33 stores. Authorities are yet to ascertain the cause of the fire.
Reporting by Jonathan Ofori in the Ashanti Region
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