Tragedy struck the Eastern Regional capital late on Saturday night as a devastating fire gutted a series of well-known commercial outlets around the Police Station Traffic Light in Koforidua.
The outbreak quickly engulfed several established businesses, including the widely patronised Mama Pee enterprise, Show Boy shop, and a local liquor establishment. Stock and equipment valued at hundreds of thousands of Ghana cedis were completely lost in the inferno.
According to bystanders, the blaze escalated within minutes, fed by highly flammable inventory across the interconnected stores. Early attempts by residents to tackle the flames proved futile due to the intense heat.
Firefighters from the Eastern Regional Command reached the site following emergency calls, spending several hours tackling the blaze before bringing it under control and safeguarding nearby structures from catching fire.
Affected traders gathered at the charred premises at daybreak to sift through debris in hopes of recovering residual items, visibly shaken by the extent of the damage.
Relating the incident to Rainbow Radio, an eyewitness recalled the sudden onset of the outbreak.
“We were nearby when heavy smoke started billowing out from one of the units. Before anyone could react, the flames swept right across the adjacent shops. We attempted to intervene, but the intensity was simply overwhelming. It is heartbreaking because these businesses form the livelihood of many local families,” the witness stated.
Officers from the Ghana National Fire Service have initiated an investigation to determine the origin of the fire.
Although no casualties or injuries have been recorded, law enforcement has secured the site to facilitate a comprehensive structural and safety evaluation.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana