Okanta, Ghana — A devastating fire involving a petrol tanker and several vehicles on the Accra-Nsawam Highway has claimed the lives of six individuals early Saturday morning. The incident, which occurred around 4:45 a.m. on February 14, 2026, has raised significant safety concerns in the region.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) reported that three victims died at the scene, while another three succumbed to their injuries at Koforidua Regional Hospital. In total, 15 people were injured, including 11 males and four females, with some receiving treatment for severe burns.
According to a statement from Ignatius K. Baidoo, the Eastern Regional Public Relations Officer for the GNFS, firefighters arrived quickly at the scene after a distress call. They encountered an expansive fire that engulfed a petrol tanker, which was transporting approximately 54,000 liters of fuel, along with a VIP bus, three cars, and four motorcycles.
Due to the fire’s intensity, additional support was requested from the Bunso Fire Station. Fire crews utilized foam compounds to bring the fire under control by 8:24 a.m. and fully extinguished it soon after, at 11:08 a.m.
Initial investigations indicate that the catastrophic blaze may have been sparked by illegal attempts to siphon fuel from the tanker. The GNFS cautioned that such activities are not only illegal but also pose severe risks to public safety. They urged the public to avoid accident scenes involving flammable materials and to contact emergency services promptly.
Of the injured, 12 were treated at Nsawam Hospital, with two being released, while 10 were transferred to Koforidua for further care. Among those transferred, three later died, and seven remain hospitalized.
The Eastern Regional Command expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and extended wishes for a swift recovery to those still receiving treatment. They emphasized the need for community cooperation to improve fire safety throughout the region.
As the investigation continues, authorities are reminding the public of the dangers associated with fuel siphoning and the importance of adhering to safety protocols in the vicinity of hazardous materials.