Ashanti Fire Service cries foul over mob attacks on personnel, gadgets

Mob Attacks on Fire Service Personnel in Ashanti Region

The Ashanti Regional Ghana Fire Service has faced three mob attacks. These incidents occurred at Konongo, Mamponteng, and Ejisu in early 2025. ACFOII Peter Tetteh, the Ashanti Regional Fire Commander, shared this information on May 5, 2025.

In 2024, there were nine attacks on fire fighters in the region. Tetteh noted that attackers are not victims of fires but criminals. Their actions deny vulnerable people access to fire services, leading to property loss and fatalities.

Many people do not understand fire management's complexities. For example, a fire appliance from Ejisu traveled nearly 40 km to Konongo only to be attacked for arriving late. Tetteh emphasized that the Fire Service does not cause incidents; they respond to them.

He urged the public to support firefighters in their mission to save lives and property. Firefighters face uncertainties when entering dangerous situations but remain committed and motivated.

Tetteh honored fallen firefighters who died in the line of duty: DOII Ebenezer Sedor, ADOII Joseph Baidoo, DOII Hannah Yawson, SUBO Isaac Newton, and RFM Ebenezer Boakye.

Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, praised the Fire Service for their dedication. He highlighted their role in Ghana's development and assured support for proper explosive handling.

Amoakohene mentioned significant financial losses from recent incidents: GH¢200 million from a Konongo explosion and GH¢916 million from a Blue Light fire incident. He promised rehabilitation of equipment and logistics for the Fire Service.

The government plans to acquire new fire tenders soon. The Minister urged builders not to obstruct fire hydrants with structures. He also suggested drilling boreholes in strategic areas for firefighting support.

Amoakohene expressed concern over attacks on firefighters due to dissatisfaction with incident responses. He assured government protection for personnel involved in firefighting efforts.

The government will partner with the Youth Employment Authority (YEA) to recruit about 5,000 youth to assist firefighters. Amoakohene encouraged designing a module that complements existing personnel without competition.

He proposed establishing a Standing Taskforce involving security agencies to identify risks related to fires or criminal activities. This team would help protect both the region and the country effectively.