Six people have lost their lives and several others sustained injuries following a fatal road crash that led to a major fire outbreak at Signboard near Okanta, off the Accra–Nsawam Highway in the Eastern Region.
In a statement, the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) Eastern Regional Command said the incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, February 14, 2026.
The Service reported receiving a distress call at about 4:45 a.m., prompting the immediate deployment of firefighters from the Suhum Fire Station to the scene.
On arrival, personnel encountered a fully developed vehicular fire involving a petrol tanker carrying about 54,000 litres of fuel, a VIP bus, three saloon cars and four motorcycles.
Due to the intensity of the blaze, reinforcements from the Bunso Fire Station were dispatched. Firefighters managed to bring the fire under control at 8:24 a.m. and completely extinguished it at 11:08 a.m.
A total of 15 casualties were recorded — 11 males and four females. Three victims were pronounced dead at the scene, while 12 injured persons were transported to Nsawam Hospital for treatment. Ten of the critically injured were later referred to Koforidua Regional Hospital.
The GNFS confirmed that three of the critically injured patients later succumbed to their injuries, raising the death toll to six. Seven others, including both adults and children, remain on admission receiving treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that sparks generated during attempts by some individuals to siphon fuel from the tanker may have ignited petrol vapours, resulting in the intense fire that engulfed the vehicles.
The Fire Service said the swift response of firefighters averted a possible explosion and urged the public to desist from siphoning fuel or approaching accident scenes involving flammable substances.
The Eastern Regional Command extended its condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
