The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has disclosed that the newly opened China City Mall at Santasi in Kumasi lacked essential fire safety infrastructure, including a hydrant and mechanised borehole, at the time it was gutted by fire on Thursday, October 30.
According to Divisional Officer II Desmond E. Ackah, Head of Public Relations at the GNFS, the absence of these facilities contributed to the rapid spread of the blaze, which razed the entire structure and destroyed goods worth thousands of cedis.
Speaking on Channel One TV on Friday, Mr. Ackah revealed that the mall had been operating for only six months and was yet to meet all fire safety requirements.
“No, they didn’t have a fire hydrant. Once you meet the basic fire safety requirements, you are permitted to start operation. But the requirement is progressive, so you move from the less costly to the high costly ones,” he explained.
He added that management had been expected to install a hydrant or an alternative water storage system but had not yet done so.
“They were going to be asked to get a fire hydrant or an alternative water storage. But that has not been done,” he added.
The fire, which started around 3 p.m. on Thursday, reportedly began from the rear section of the building before spreading rapidly. Firefighters rushed to the scene but struggled to contain the flames due to the lack of nearby water sources.
Thick smoke could be seen billowing across the area as shop owners and residents watched helplessly. The National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO) joined the operation to support rescue and safety efforts.
Fortunately, no casualties were recorded, though the entire building—housing electronics, groceries, and household goods—was destroyed.
Investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the blaze.
