A devastating fire outbreak at the Dansoman Market in the early hours of the morning has once again drawn attention to concerns over the persistent obstruction of fire safety inspections by individuals claiming ownership of the market.

According to the Greater Accra Regional Fire Officer, ACFO II Rasheed Nisawu, two men identified as Mr. Kortey and Mr. Kotoku had on several occasions prevented personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service from carrying out routine safety checks at the market.

“On numerous occasions, these individuals have blocked our officers from conducting safety inspections, insisting that the market belongs to them,” ACFO II Nisawu revealed. “Their conduct has severely limited our ability to enforce basic fire safety measures. This situation is extremely risky and must be addressed urgently.”

He has therefore appealed to the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) and relevant state authorities to intervene decisively to prevent future disasters.

“We cannot effectively protect lives and property if we are denied access to inspect the facility. The MCE and central government must step in before further destruction occurs,” he stressed.

The inferno destroyed more than eight shops, leaving several traders devastated and counting their losses. Tragically, the incident also claimed the life of an eight-year-old girl who was found dead in the aftermath. Eyewitnesses reported that the fire started in the very shop where the child had allegedly been locked before the flames rapidly spread.

Authorities are expected to launch full investigations into the cause of the fire, as well as the reported obstruction of fire safety operations.