The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) successfully brought under control a significant fire that engulfed parts of the Accra Timber Market in the early hours of Saturday, September 13. The distress call was received by the GNFS at 1:17 a.m., alerting them to a blaze near the Ayalolo School. A rapid response saw the first firefighting crew arrive on the scene just four minutes later, at 1:21 a.m., demonstrating the swiftness of the emergency services.

A substantial deployment of resources was necessary to combat the inferno. A total of seven fire engines were dispatched from various stations across the capital, including Accra City, the Accra Regional Headquarters Substation, Ministries, Circle, National Headquarters, Abelemkpe, and Legon. These were augmented by a GNFS water tanker and two additional tankers provided by the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) and the Ablekuma Municipal Assembly, highlighting a coordinated effort between multiple agencies.

The intensive firefighting operation lasted several hours, with clear milestones reached throughout the morning. The fire was successfully confined by 6:26 a.m., brought under full control by 6:37 a.m., and finally declared extinguished at 11:44 a.m.

Despite the successful containment, two firefighters sustained injuries during the arduous operation. One suffered an electrical shock, while another sustained burns to his left arm. Both individuals received immediate treatment, have since been discharged, and are reportedly responding well to their recovery.

The fire caused substantial damage, destroying several shops that traded in wooden planks and hardware materials within the market. However, the prompt and efficient intervention by the fire crews was critical in preventing further devastation. Adjoining buildings, notably the Ayalolo Cluster of Schools, were successfully saved from the advancing blaze.

Senior officials were present at the scene to oversee and support the operation. The Acting Chief Fire Officer, Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sapong, was on-site to assess the situation and provide operational guidance. She was joined by the Deputy Director of Operations, ACFO II Osmond Anum, the Greater Accra Regional Commander, ACFO II Rashid Kwame Nisawu, and other senior officers who supervised the intricate firefighting coordination.