Madina Gunman Sparks Public Fury After Firing Shots Amid Fire Outbreak at Redco Flats
A video capturing a man firing a pump-action gun in broad daylight during a devastating fire at Madina Redco Flats on Saturday, August 3, has gone viral, igniting public outrage and calls for immediate police intervention.
The shocking incident, which occurred amidst efforts to control a fierce blaze, was captured and circulated on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) by user @SikaOfficial on Monday, August 5. The footage shows the unidentified man discharging the firearm from a distance before boldly approaching the crowd and appearing to aim directly at bystanders.
Panic ensued as terrified residents fled in all directions, with many seeking cover while others screamed in fear. Disturbingly, the gunman continued firing despite the visible presence of both police personnel and officers from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), who were battling the blaze nearby.
The video has since triggered a wave of condemnation from the public, who are questioning why security personnel on the scene failed to disarm or arrest the gunman. Social media users, civil society advocates, and residents of Madina have demanded swift action and clarity from the police.
“It’s unacceptable and terrifying that someone could behave so recklessly in a densely populated area, especially during an emergency,” one user posted. “Where were the police when we needed them?”
The incident unfolded as a massive fire engulfed over 50 wooden and makeshift structures at the outskirts of the Redco Flats area. Eyewitnesses said the fire spread rapidly, fueled by dry materials and intensified by close proximity between the structures. Several residents were rendered homeless, with most losing personal belongings and livelihood tools.
Fire officers battled the inferno under dangerous conditions, including thick smoke, intense heat, and falling live electrical wires. Despite these hazards, the GNFS managed to bring the fire under control in approximately 20 minutes, preventing further destruction.
As of now, the Ghana Police Service has not issued a formal statement on the gunman’s identity or whether any arrests have been made. However, public pressure is mounting for swift investigations and accountability, both for the shooting and the response of law enforcement on the ground.
Authorities are also assessing the damage caused by the fire and making arrangements to support displaced residents.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation.
