Fire destroys 32 rooms at Accra Central Police Barracks Annex – Firefighter critically injured
Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service have contained a heavy fire outbreak at Accra Water Works, opposite the Accra Central Police Station, which extensively damaged the Police Barracks Annex and destroyed thirty-two rooms, according to a statement released by the service.
The fire, which broke out on Wednesday (June 3, 2026) evening, prompted a major emergency response after a distress call was received at 2005 hours. Firefighters from the Accra City Fire Station arrived at the scene just two minutes later, at 2007 hours, to find the fire already fully developed.
Reinforcements from the Ministries, Parliament, Industrial Area and Circle Fire Stations were quickly deployed to support firefighting operations, with additional assistance from a water tanker from the Assembly.
Seven-hour battle
The fire was confined at 2229 hours, brought under control at 2350 hours and fully extinguished at 0341 hours – a gruelling seven-hour operation that lasted well into the early hours of Thursday morning.
Despite the intensity of the blaze, the GNFS confirmed that there were no fatalities. However, one firefighter was critically injured during the operation and was conveyed to the Police Hospital for treatment. He is currently in stable condition and responding well to treatment.
Extensive damage
The fire extensively damaged the Accra Central Police Barracks Annex, destroying thirty-two rooms and their contents, as well as a one-storey building and its contents. The loss of personal belongings and property for the police personnel and their families who occupied the barracks is significant.
Despite the severity of the blaze, firefighters successfully prevented the fire from spreading to the nearby Ghana Water Limited facility and other adjoining structures, thereby averting further losses. The swift intervention of the GNFS is believed to have saved critical infrastructure from destruction.
Cause under investigation
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, the GNFS stated. Authorities have not yet indicated whether the blaze was accidental or if any foul play is suspected.
The Accra Central Police Station and the surrounding area have seen increased activity as investigators comb through the scene to determine the origin of the fire. The GNFS has urged the public to remain calm and allow emergency personnel to complete their work.
The injured firefighter remains under observation at the Police Hospital, where medical staff have confirmed that he is responding well to treatment.
The GNFS has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and has called on the public to adhere to fire safety measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
