Kantamanto Market Fire: GNFS Deploys 12 Fire Stations to Battle Devastating Blaze (VIDEO)

A fierce blaze erupted at Accra’s Kantamanto Market in the early hours of the morning, destroying over 100 shops and leaving traders in despair.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has mounted a massive operation, deploying fire appliances from 12 stations across the Greater Accra Region to combat the fire.

The fire, which started around 1 a.m., prompted an immediate response from fire stations at Makola, Greater Accra Regional Headquarters, National Headquarters, Flagstaff House, and Parliament House.

However, the intensity of the flames necessitated reinforcements, with additional fire tenders arriving from Circle, Trade Fair, and Dansoman.

To further bolster efforts, two fire tenders from Abelenkpe and Kasapreko joined the operation, followed by reinforcements from Tema Regional Headquarters and Madina.

The Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) was called upon to cut power to the area to ensure the safety of firefighters and prevent potential electrocutions.

Firefighters have been working tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading to adjacent areas. The GNFS described the operation as one of their most extensive in recent memory, reflecting the scale and intensity of the inferno.

Despite their efforts, large portions of the market have been destroyed, leaving many traders devastated.

“We are doing everything possible to contain the situation. The deployment of 12 fire stations underscores our commitment to tackling this crisis,” a GNFS spokesperson stated.

The exact cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but some traders have expressed suspicions of arson, citing the rapid spread of the flames. Investigations are expected to commence as soon as the fire is fully extinguished.

“We need to know what caused this disaster. This is not the first time Kantamanto has suffered such a tragedy, and it’s time we get to the root of these incidents,” said a concerned trader.

The GNFS has assured the public of its dedication to addressing the crisis and mitigating its impact.

“This is a challenging situation, but our team is fully equipped and committed to bringing it under control. We urge the public to remain calm as we continue our efforts,” the GNFS statement read.

The fire has left hundreds of traders in anguish as they assess the extent of their losses.

“I have lost everything—my goods, my livelihood. I don’t even know where to begin,” lamented a trader whose shop was among the destroyed structures.

Another trader called for government support, saying, “We need help. This market is our life. Without it, we are nothing.”