- Interior Minister Muntaka announces a special task force to protect firefighters in high-risk areas
- 12 assault cases on firefighters recorded in 2024; 21 personnel injured
- Event celebrates Ghana’s first female Acting Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sapong
In a firm effort to protect Ghana’s firefighters from growing incidents of assault and equipment sabotage, Interior Minister Mubarak Mohammed Muntaka has announced the creation of a special committee that will coordinate with security agencies to provide armed escorts for fire crews working in high-risk areas.
The announcement was made during Ghana’s national celebration of International Firefighters’ Day at the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) headquarters in Accra—a day that combined solemn reflection with recognition of the courage and sacrifices of firefighters.
“We are seeing an alarming rise in attacks on firefighters—12 reported incidents last year, up from eight in the previous year,” the minister noted. “These assaults, which include physical violence and the destruction of firefighting equipment, directly endanger public safety. We will not tolerate this.”
Areas highlighted as hotspots for such attacks include Konongo-Odumase, Kumasi-Moshie Zongo, Atebubu, Labadi, and Dansoman. In 2024 alone, 21 firefighters suffered serious injuries such as broken bones, deep lacerations, and psychological trauma. Damaged equipment has also delayed emergency responses in several cases.
To combat the problem, Muntaka announced that the Interior Ministry will work with the Inspector General of Police to deploy a dedicated task force to accompany GNFS teams during operations in volatile areas.
“This task force will ensure no firefighter has to fear for their safety while performing their duty,” he stressed, adding that the government is fully committed to defending those who risk their lives to save others.
The initiative aligns with the theme of this year’s observance: “Appreciating Our Heroes: Say No to Firefighter Assault and Firefighting Truck Vandalism.” Muntaka also called for a societal shift in attitudes.
“This is a national responsibility,” he said. “We urge religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society to speak out against these attacks. Firefighters should never be harmed for answering the call to duty.”
The minister also announced broader reforms, including collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development to increase fire station coverage and provide modern firefighting tools such as drones, rapid response vehicles, and aerial firefighting units.
The event additionally honoured Acting Chief Fire Officer Daniella Mawusi Ntow-Sapong, Ghana’s first female to hold the position. She was commended for boosting public safety through night patrols and enhanced public education efforts.
“Today is a day of renewed commitment—from the government and from society—to protect those who protect us,” Muntaka concluded. “Firefighters are not just responders; they are national heroes.”
