Fire guts three-storey building at Manhyia South; 11 rooms destroyed

A fire broke out at a three-story building in Manhyia South, Kumasi, on Thursday, August 20, destroying 11 of the 44 rooms. The fire caught residents and passers-by off guard, with one eyewitness recounting a woman running out of the house in panic, screaming for help. Emergency services were promptly alerted, and firefighters arrived swiftly to control the blaze.

Local reports suggest the fire may have been caused by a gas-related incident, as several gas cylinders were present in the building. Eyewitnesses noted the rapid spread of the fire, with one remarking on how quickly it engulfed the rooms in the multi-story structure. Despite the extensive damage, all occupants managed to evacuate safely, with no reported deaths or injuries.

The Asokore Mampong and KNUST Fire Stations responded promptly, dispatching two fire engines to the scene. By 1:40 p.m., the fire was under control, with firefighters successfully limiting the damage to 11 of the 44 rooms. The Ashanti Regional Deputy Fire Commander, ACFO II Amos Aban, confirmed that investigations into the fire's cause are ongoing, with the public expected to receive updates as the findings become available.

The Regional Control Room received the distress call at 12:23 p.m., leading to the dispatch of the emergency response teams. Officials from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) have appealed to the public for support in aiding the affected residents. They are urging building owners to conduct regular risk assessments to prevent similar incidents in the future.