Kumasi, Ghana – A significant fire erupted in the central business district of Adum, Kumasi, on Friday, March 21, 2025, causing substantial damage to numerous shops and prompting a swift response from emergency services. The blaze, which reportedly started around 5:00 a.m. near the Blue Light Arena and Hello FM, rapidly spread to adjacent buildings, triggering widespread panic among traders who desperately attempted to salvage their merchandise.

The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) was alerted at 6:05 a.m., with the first response team arriving at the scene within ten minutes, at 6:15 a.m. Fire engines from KNUST, Ejisu, and Twedie were subsequently deployed to reinforce firefighting efforts. Senior fire officials, including the regional fire commander, his deputy, operations officers, and district commanders, are currently on-site, overseeing the operations aimed at extinguishing the fire and securing the area.

Amidst the chaos, law enforcement intervened to address opportunistic looting. According to eyewitness accounts and video footage circulating on social media, several individuals attempted to break into shops and steal merchandise. However, the prompt deployment of police and military personnel proved crucial in preventing further theft and maintaining order. Five individuals were arrested on suspicion of looting from affected establishments.

The Ghana Police Service is conducting investigations to determine the cause of the fire and address the looting incidents. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency responders to work efficiently and facilitate a thorough investigation. Officials are expected to assess the extent of the damage and determine the cause of the fire in the coming days.

The presence of security forces was instrumental in enabling firefighters to focus on controlling the blaze and minimizing additional losses for businesses already impacted. The public has been urged to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing inquiries to ensure community safety and security.

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