Spencer Wan Blog of Thursday, 30 January 2025
Source: Eric Afatsao
A dramatic scene unfolded last Tuesday when bystanders attacked personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) as they battled a raging fire on a Kumasi-bound bus from Aflao. The incident, which took place along a major roadway, saw agitated individuals heckling and obstructing the firefighters, even attempting to seize their firefighting equipment as they worked tirelessly to bring the flames under control.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire broke out suddenly while the bus was in motion, prompting the driver to pull over and evacuate passengers. The GNFS responded promptly, deploying foam compound and water jets to suppress the inferno. However, instead of allowing the professionals to execute their duties, a section of the gathered crowd became confrontational, verbally abusing the officers and interfering with their operations.
The firefighters persevered in putting out the fire in spite of the animosity, slicing through the confusion. The bus was completely destroyed, leaving passengers with just their recovered possessions, although no injuries were reported.
The incident has been sharply denounced by the GNFS, which has called for increased public awareness and collaboration in emergency circumstances. The organization stressed in a statement that these interruptions not only put lives in jeopardy but also make rescue efforts more difficult. They asked the public to keep a safe distance from fire situations so that firefighters can operate without interference.
Concern over the unsettling pattern of public hostility against emergency responders is developing in Ghana. Experts emphasize the necessity for stronger enforcement of the rules prohibiting blocking rescue workers and for increased public education on emergency response procedures. The public has been reassured by the GNFS that they are still dedicated to their mission of preserving lives and property, but they require responsible behavior and support from the public.
In order to determine who committed the assault and make sure that similar behavior is discouraged in the future, authorities are looking into the incident. In order to guarantee an effective and efficient response in emergency circumstances, the GNFS has reaffirmed its call for the public to work in tandem with emergency service providers.