A devastating fire outbreak at an uncompleted fuel station in Ejura Babasso, near the town’s cemetery, has claimed the life of a 25-year-old man.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, drawing a swift but ultimately tragic response from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
The deceased, identified as Ali Abubakari, was caught in the blaze that engulfed the unfinished building, which was reportedly being used to retail petrol stored in gallons.
His charred body was retrieved by emergency personnel and handed over to officers from the Ejura Police Command for further investigation.
GNFS responds in minutes
According to a statement issued by the GNFS, the Ejura Fire Station received the distress call at approximately 12:25 p.m. on Tuesday, reporting a fire at block number E 6264.
The structure, though not formally commissioned as a fuel station, had been engaged in the illicit retail of petroleum products.
A fire crew led by Station Officer I Daniels Moah was dispatched immediately and arrived at the scene within six minutes, at 12:31 p.m.
However, the fire had already engulfed the structure by the time they arrived.
Divisional Officer II Peter Addai, Head of Public Relations for the GNFS in the Ashanti Region, commended the crew’s swift action in bringing the situation under control.
“The fire was brought under control within ten minutes of our arrival and was fully extinguished by 12:55 p.m. using water,” he said.
Beans and fuel containers burnt in blaze
Apart from the tragic loss of life, the fire also caused property damage.
The uncompleted structure, which had been repurposed as a makeshift fuel depot, was partially destroyed.
Six bags of beans stored on-site were also consumed by the flames, although another six were salvaged through the efforts of the firefighting team.
The GNFS has launched a full investigation into the cause of the fire.
Preliminary observations point to the highly flammable and hazardous nature of the illegal storage of petrol in domestic or unapproved commercial settings.
Warning against illegal fuel storage
In a stern caution to the public, the GNFS reiterated its longstanding warning against the storage and distribution of petroleum products in unauthorised facilities.
“This tragic incident is yet another reminder of the grave dangers involved in storing fuel in unregulated environments,” said Officer Addai.
He called on the public to report such illegal operations and to seek the appropriate permits and safety clearances when handling combustible materials.
Condolences to the bereaved family
The Ghana National Fire Service extended its deepest condolences to the family of Ali Abubakari and assured the general public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property through prompt and professional emergency response.
