The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has confirmed that the fire which broke out at a Chinese-owned warehouse in Lartebiokorshie, Accra, is still burning and could take additional time to fully extinguish.
According to DO2 Desmond Ackah, Head of Public Relations at GNFS, the fire began around 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 9, and has proven difficult to control due to the presence of highly flammable materials such as rubber slippers, synthetic items, and leather bags.
“The fire is still burning intensely. These materials tend to reignite even after being put out,” Ackah explained.
Although there were earlier unconfirmed reports of casualties, the GNFS has not recorded any fatalities. However, two firefighters and one civilian sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment.
To combat the fire, firefighters are using heavy-duty equipment, including excavators, to dig through debris and reach hidden flames.
“We’re using excavators to reach deeply buried materials that continue to fuel the fire. That’s the only way we can fully extinguish it,” Ackah noted.
He praised the dedication of the fire personnel but called on government, NGOs, and private individuals to provide logistical and resource support to strengthen firefighting operations.
Meanwhile, residents near the warehouse remain worried. One local told Adom News:
“We haven’t slept well since the fire started. The smoke is overwhelming, and we fear it could spread to our homes.”
