6 DEAD, 7 INJURED IN FUEL TANKER INFERNO ON ACCRA–NSAWAM HIGHWAY
GNFS warns public against illegal fuel siphoning after tragic blaze at Okanta
At least six people have lost their lives while seven others remain hospitalised following a horrific fuel tanker fire at Signboard near Okanta on the Accra–Nsawam Highway.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), Eastern Regional Command, confirmed the incident in a statement dated February 16, 2026. The tragedy occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 14, after a road traffic accident involving a petrol tanker sparked a massive blaze.
According to the GNFS, a distress call was received at 4:45 a.m., prompting firefighters from the Suhum Fire Station to rush to the scene. Upon arrival, they were met with what officials described as a “fully developed vehicular fire” involving a petrol tanker carrying approximately 54,000 litres of fuel, a VIP bus, three saloon cars and four motorcycles all engulfed in flames.
Due to the intensity of the inferno, reinforcement crews from the Bunso Fire Station were deployed. Firefighters used foam compounds and coordinated tactical operations to contain the blaze. The fire was brought under control at 8:24 a.m. and completely extinguished at 11:08 a.m.
Fifteen casualties were recorded eleven males and four females. Three victims, two men and one woman, were pronounced dead at the scene, with their charred bodies handed over to the police for preservation and investigations.
Twelve injured persons were initially rushed to Nsawam Hospital. Two were later discharged, including one who left against medical advice. Ten critically injured victims were referred to the Koforidua Regional Hospital, where three subsequently died from their injuries. The remaining seven comprising two male children, four adult males and one female are still receiving treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire may have been ignited by sparks generated during attempts by some individuals to illegally siphon fuel from the tanker using cutting tools. The GNFS noted that the sparks likely ignited petrol vapours, leading to the devastating fire.
The Service emphasised that its swift intervention prevented what could have been an even more catastrophic explosion. It also issued a stern warning to the public, describing fuel siphoning as both illegal and extremely dangerous.
The Eastern Regional Command extended its condolences to the bereaved families and urged citizens to avoid approaching accident scenes involving flammable substances. The public has also been advised to immediately alert emergency services in such situations to prevent further loss of life.
Source:NKONKONSA.com
