The attack on Ahafo Regional Fire Service Command officials by Hwidiem people during a local fire has been harshly denounced by the organization.
When officers from Kenyasi arrived to help fight a fire outbreak in the Zongo region, they were met with violent attacks by Hwidiem people, according to DO1 Percy Odoi Anang, Deputy Fire Commander for the Ahafo Region.
The locals’ anger over what they saw as a slow response led to the attack. Officers tried to explain to the people that they were there to support their colleagues because they didn’t have enough combat supplies, but they wouldn’t listen, so they started attacking them.
Four officers were hospitalized at Saint Elizabeth Hospital after sustaining serious injuries as a result. According to DO1 Percy Odoi Anang, such behavior by locals is illegal and unacceptable.
The fire service prioritizes responding quickly to fire situations, but there are obstacles in places where there aren’t enough fire stations or firefighting supplies. He emphasized this.
Instead of using violence to defend their villages, he urged the locals to assist the Fire Service in their efforts.
He emphasized that the Fire Service depends on collaboration from the community to efficiently handle fire outbreaks and maintain public safety. He also emphasized the necessity for residents to have understanding and cooperation, especially in areas where there are few fire stations.
