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Twelve firefighters have sustained injuries following an explosion during efforts to contain a petrol tanker fire at Gomoa Potsin in the Central Region.
According to a statement from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, March 17, 2026, along the Winneba–Accra Highway. The Central Regional Fire Control Room received a distress call at approximately 5:58 a.m. reporting a fire outbreak involving a fuel tanker carrying about 54,000 litres of petrol.
Fire crews from the Apam and Kasoa fire stations were swiftly deployed to the scene, supported by a private water tanker. Upon arrival at about 6:26 a.m., firefighters were confronted with a fully developed blaze that was rapidly spreading to nearby structures, posing a significant threat to lives and property. The tanker driver and his mate escaped unhurt.
The GNFS noted that through coordinated and tactical operations, firefighters managed to contain the fire and prevent further destruction. The blaze was brought under control at 7:58 a.m. and completely extinguished by 8:42 a.m.
However, during cooling operations to prevent re-ignition, the tanker suddenly reignited and exploded, injuring twelve firefighters in the process.
Out of the injured personnel, four sustained severe injuries and were rushed to medical facilities, including the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital and the Potsin Polyclinic. The remaining eight suffered minor injuries and were treated at the scene by personnel from the National Ambulance Service. All four severely injured firefighters have since been treated and discharged.
The Central Regional Commander of the GNFS, ACFO I Merinder Mary Attigah Mensah, together with the Director of Operations, DCFO Roberta Aggrey Ghanson, visited the injured firefighters and the scene of the incident. They assured the victims of management’s commitment to their welfare and full recovery.
Firefighters remain at the scene to ensure safety as arrangements are underway to transfer the remaining fuel from the damaged tanker. Meanwhile, authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the fire.
The GNFS expressed appreciation to supporting agencies for their timely response and reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, while emphasizing concern for the safety and welfare of its personnel.
