GNFS arrests man for stabbing firefighter during Adjiriganor fire

The Ghana National Fire Service has confirmed the arrest of a 21-year-old man accused of stabbing a firefighter during a late-night blaze that tore through a one-storey building at Adjiriganor in Accra.

The suspect, identified as Azumah Sampson, was apprehended after a search lasting several days and has since been handed over to the police.

Officials say he is currently assisting investigators as they work to understand the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

According to the Fire Service, the attack happened when Sampson allegedly tried to force his way into the burning building in an attempt to steal items while firefighters were risking their lives to contain the flames.

In the struggle, one firefighter was stabbed in the left arm. A second officer was also injured when part of the building collapsed and a block fell on his shoulder.

The Service described the behaviour as deeply worrying, especially at a time when emergency workers were focused on saving lives and protecting property.

“All we want is to keep people safe, so it is heartbreaking when anyone tries to harm those who are helping,” an official said.

The fire broke out around 9:30 p.m. and destroyed seven of the eight rooms on the top floor of the structure. Crews from Legon, Madina, Adenta and headquarters battled the flames for hours but were able to prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring homes.

The injured firefighters received treatment at Unity Clinic in Madina and were later discharged.

The Fire Service had earlier offered a reward for information leading to the suspect’s arrest. It remains unclear whether a tip-off led to the breakthrough, but officials say they are relieved the suspect is now in custody.