GNFS contain major fire at Accra water works, 32 Police barracks rooms destroyed
Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) have successfully contained a major fire outbreak at Accra Water Works, opposite the Accra Central Police Station, which destroyed parts of the Police Barracks Annex and gutted 32 rooms, according to an official statement from the service.
The fire broke out on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, in the evening, with the GNFS receiving a distress call at 2005 hours. Personnel from the Accra City Fire Station arrived at the scene two minutes later at 2007 hours, but found the blaze already fully developed.
Additional support was quickly deployed from the Ministries, Parliament, Industrial Area and Circle Fire Stations, with a water tanker provided by the Assembly also assisting in the operation.
The fire was confined at 2229 hours, brought under control at 2350 hours, and finally extinguished at 0341 hours on Thursday, following a seven-hour operation.
Despite the intensity of the blaze, no fatalities were recorded. However, one firefighter sustained critical injuries during the operation and was transported to the Police Hospital, where he is reported to be in stable condition and responding to treatment.
The fire caused extensive damage to the Accra Central Police Barracks Annex, destroying 32 rooms and their contents, as well as a one-storey building and its property. The incident left several police personnel and their families counting significant losses.
Firefighters, however, managed to prevent the flames from spreading to the nearby Ghana Water Limited facility and other adjoining structures, averting what could have been a much larger disaster.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have not yet determined whether it was accidental or the result of foul play.
Security and emergency teams continue to assess the scene around the Accra Central Police Station as investigations progress. The GNFS has urged the public to remain calm and allow investigators to carry out their work.
The Service also reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while urging the public to observe fire safety precautions to help prevent similar incidents.