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A tense situation unfolded in Konongo, nestled within the Asante Akim Central Municipality of the Ashanti Region, as enraged locals launched an attack on fire personnel and inflicted damage upon their equipment.
The incident transpired on Saturday, February 10, 2024, when the community members accused the fire brigade of tardiness in their reaction to a fire outbreak within the vicinity.
Firefighters stationed in Konongo had been dispatched to a blaze near Nkwakwa. However, while attending to this emergency, they received an urgent call for assistance back in Konongo township, as the sole fire engine serves multiple localities.
The irate residents, displeased with what they perceived as a delayed arrival of the fire brigade, resorted to pelting stones and other objects at the responding team. In the ensuing chaos, significant damage was inflicted upon the firefighting apparatus, leaving the firefighters emotionally shaken.
Law enforcement authorities have commenced investigations into the incident, although thus far, no arrests have been made.
The Ghana National Fire Service had previously issued warnings to the public against assaulting its personnel.
D.O.3 Peter Addai, the Ashanti Regional Public Relations Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service, implored citizens to refrain from acts of violence towards emergency responders, underscoring that such actions are in violation of Ghanaian statutes.
“We put our lives on the line to safeguard the lives and property of the populace. Yet, when we encounter such hostility, it deeply affects us. We caution those who engage in such misconduct to cease, as it constitutes an offense under Section 205 of the Criminal Code. It is unlawful to obstruct an officer in the execution of their duties, and we urge individuals to desist from such actions,” he asserted.
