Tensions Erupt in Sunyani as Residents Clash with Fire Service

Chaos unfolded in a suburb of Sunyani after angry residents confronted personnel of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), allegedly over a delayed response to a fire outbreak in the area.

According to eyewitness reports, the fire, which broke out in the early hours of the day, caused significant property damage.

Despite repeated emergency calls by residents, the fire service reportedly arrived several hours later, by which time the damage had already escalated.

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Frustrated by what they described as “unacceptable delays,” some members of the community resorted to violence, hurling stones and objects at the fire tender and personnel upon their arrival.

A video circulating on social media shows a crowd surrounding the fire truck in a heated confrontation.

Most of the residents were angry asking why the fire service personnels were delayed in response to their calls amid the tragedy, they were shouting asking the personnels to leave the premises.

Security personnel had to intervene to restore order and prevent further escalation.

While the Ghana National Fire Service has yet to issue an official statement on the incident, local leaders are calling for calm and urging residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands.

They also appealed to authorities to improve emergency response times and communication, especially in fire-related incidents.

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This incident highlights growing tensions between communities and emergency service providers, emphasizing the need for investment in logistics, personnel, and public engagement to rebuild trust and ensure timely responses in future emergencies.

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Kindly watch the video below;

https://www.facebook.com/share/r/19X2DzNnaD/