Accra, Ghana – A devastating fire outbreak at the Accra Central Police Barracks Annex has destroyed 32 rooms and displaced occupants, while a firefighter sustained critical injuries during efforts to bring the blaze under control.
The fire, which broke out on the evening of June 3, 2026, at the barracks annex near Accra Water Works and opposite the Accra Central Police Station, triggered a large-scale emergency response from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).
According to the GNFS, a distress call was received at 8:05 p.m., and firefighters from the Accra City Fire Station arrived at the scene within two minutes to find the blaze fully developed. Additional crews from the Ministries, Parliament, Industrial Area, and Circle Fire Stations, supported by an Assembly water tanker, joined the operation.
After an intensive seven-hour firefighting effort, the blaze was confined at 10:29 p.m., brought under control at 11:50 p.m., and completely extinguished at 3:41 a.m. on Thursday.
The fire extensively damaged 32 rooms and their contents, as well as a one-storey building within the barracks annex. The incident resulted in substantial property losses for police personnel and their families residing at the facility.
Despite the scale of the destruction, authorities confirmed that no fatalities were recorded. However, one firefighter suffered life-threatening injuries while battling the blaze and was rushed to the Police Hospital. Officials say he is currently in stable condition and responding positively to treatment.
The Ghana Police Service, in a statement issued by the Accra Regional Public Affairs Unit, disclosed that a suspect has been arrested and is currently in police custody assisting with investigations into the incident. Authorities have not yet revealed the identity of the suspect or the nature of their alleged involvement.
Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, accompanied by members of the Police Management Board and the Accra Regional Police Commander, visited the scene to assess the situation and offer support to affected personnel.
Firefighters successfully prevented the blaze from spreading to nearby facilities, including the Ghana Water Limited installation and other adjoining structures, averting what could have been a much larger disaster.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation. While earlier accounts from emergency responders suggested a possible electrical fault, officials say no definitive conclusion has been reached.
Authorities have assured the public that further updates will be provided as investigations continue and have urged residents to observe fire safety measures to help prevent similar incidents.
