Fire Guts 47 Vehicles and Multiple Shops at Suame Magazine

A devastating fire broke out at Suame Magazine’s Garage area in Zone 21 on Friday, January 31, leaving behind significant destruction. The fire, which started late in the night, has destroyed 47 vehicles and a number of shops, causing an estimated loss of thousands of Ghanaian cedis.

The fire reportedly started in one of the shops and quickly spread to nearby structures. The Garage area, known for auto mechanics and spare parts businesses, was particularly vulnerable due to the presence of combustible materials like car fuel, engine oil, and welding equipment.

One of the affected traders, Kwame Asante, said:
“I lost everything I had in the shop. Spare parts, tools, and even customers’ cars – they are all gone. I don’t know where to start from.”

Several business owners were seen in distress, trying to salvage whatever little was left after the fire. Many of the 47 cars that were damaged were either parked for repairs or awaiting service.

Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) quickly responded to distress calls, with multiple fire engines rushing to the scene. Despite the size of the fire and the flammable materials in the area, the fire service worked tirelessly to control the flames.

GNFS officers on the scene, explained:
“The fire spread very fast due to the presence of fuel and oil in the area. We acted quickly to contain it, but the damage is extensive. We’re still investigating the cause.”

Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, though initial reports suggest an electrical fault or an accidental spark might have triggered the blaze. Investigators are also examining the safety measures in place at Suame Magazine to determine whether proper fire prevention protocols were followed.

In the aftermath of the fire, business owners and local residents are calling for more fire safety precautions in the area. Many are requesting regular fire drills, better access to fire hydrants, and improved electrical installations.

Some of the business owner, expressed:
“We’ve been asking for fire safety measures for a long time, but nothing has been done. We need better precautions to prevent such a tragedy from happening again.”

The Suame Municipal Assembly has promised to work closely with the Ghana National Fire Service to address safety concerns and assist the affected traders in recovering from their losses.

This fire has once again highlighted the critical need for enhanced safety measures in industrial zones and commercial hubs like Suame Magazine.

By Simon Opoku Afriyie