A devastating fire swept through several shops and residential properties at Srodae near the Old Traffic Light in Koforidua, Ghana, destroying goods and property. The fire, which started on Saturday, October 3, 2026, was contained by firefighters from the New Juaben North Municipal Fire Station. They received a distress call at 11:02 p.m. and quickly responded to the scene.
According to eyewitnesses, the fire began when smoke was seen billowing from a building. One witness reported that a gentleman who stays upstairs entered his apartment, and about 20 minutes later, a lady selling Tilapia alerted him to the smoke. The witness rushed to get water, but the fire worsened, prompting a call to the fire service. Firefighters led by SO II Nartey were dispatched to the scene and arrived at 11:15 p.m.
The fire service team found a one-story building fully engulfed in flames and immediately commenced operations. They brought the fire under control at 1:23 a.m. and completely extinguished it at 3:04 a.m. The swift response prevented the fire from spreading to adjoining properties and helped minimize the damage. The affected shops are part of a row of old structures used for both domestic and commercial activities.
The fire destroyed various items, including personal care products, electrical cables, fascia boards, lights, personal belongings, jewelry, paints, drinks, air conditioners, mobile phones and accessories, clothing, footwear, and roofing sheets. The intensity of the fire also caused the complete collapse of the first floor and partial collapse of sections of the ground floor. Due to safety concerns, the area has been cordoned off to prevent unauthorized access.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Awatey, has called for the demolition of the affected facility, citing safety concerns. She stated that the burnt store is an old mud building and is almost at a collapsing stage. Although there were no significant casualties, the minister emphasized the need to ensure public safety by demolishing the building.
In a separate incident, police arrested a 25-year-old man for allegedly stealing during the fire incident. The suspect was arrested at the scene as police personnel worked to maintain order and prevent looting. According to ASP Augustine Kwabena, the suspect had entered one of the burning shops to steal something and is currently in police custody.
The incident has raised concerns about safety and security in the area. The police and other authorities are working to investigate the cause of the fire and ensure that those responsible are held accountable. The community is coming together to support those affected by the fire and to rebuild and recover from the incident.
Key points
- A suspect was arrested for allegedly looting during the fire incident at Srodae in Koforidua, Ghana.
- The fire destroyed several shops and residential properties, causing significant damage and displacement.
- The Eastern Regional Minister has called for the demolition of the affected facility due to safety concerns.
