It could be arson or electrical fault – GNFS on Kantamanto fire
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has suggested that an electrical fault or arson is the possible cause of the devastating fire that ravaged Kantamanto Market in Accra on Thursday, January 2, 2025.
The fire, which started at around 1:19 a.m., destroyed over 100 shops, leaving traders in distress.
According to the GNFS, preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have been caused by faulty electrical connections, a common issue in the market. However, the possibility of arson has not been ruled out. Public Relations Officer Alex King Nartey stated, “We suspect electrical faults, but there are also indications that this could have been a deliberate act. An investigation is ongoing to establish the facts.”
The inferno consumed goods worth millions of cedis, with distraught traders pleading for government intervention.
Firefighters faced challenges accessing the burning area due to obstructions. This hindered their efforts to contain the blaze swiftly.
Mr Nartey emphasized the urgent need for improved fire safety measures in markets across the country.
He noted that outdated infrastructure and inadequate equipment make it difficult to tackle fires of such magnitude. “We need more logistical support and modern equipment to deal with emergencies effectively,” he added.