The Ashanti Regional Fire Commander ACFO II Peter Tetteh, has attributed the rapid spread of the fire at Adum Market to the congested nature of the area, which made it difficult for firefighters to access the burning shops.

Addressing the media at the scene on Friday, March 21, he stated that his team arrived on time to control the fire but was hindered by the lack of space, which delayed their efforts and allowed the fire to spread further.

“Our men got here early, but the unavailability of space caused a delay, making it difficult to contain the fire. The congestion in the market, with shops closely packed together, created major accessibility challenges for our personnel,” he explained.
His comment follows a massive fire outbreak at Adum Market in Kumasi’s Central Business District, which has destroyed several shops and properties. The fire, which started early Friday, March 21, spread rapidly due to highly combustible materials, making it difficult for firefighters to contain.

Reflecting on the nature of the fire, the Ashanti Regional Fire Commander described it as highly complex, noting that it started at the back of the market and ravaged shops before reaching the front.

“The fire is very complex. Some shops contain different types of goods, which makes the situation even harder to handle. We have managed to extinguish the fire in the front buildings, and that section is now under control.
“However, we are still battling the flames at the back, where accessibility remains a problem. Our fire tenders are positioned behind the buildings, but limited space restricts our operations. Though we have ladders to fight the fire from the roof, accessing the right points has been difficult,” he added.
Despite these challenges, he assured the public that his team was working tirelessly to bring the fire under control.
Emergency responders remain on the ground, battling the blaze as shop owners assess their losses.

Meanwhile, the Police service has arrested some looters who are taking advantage of the situation.

Sompaonline.com