Twelve firefighters have been injured following a fuel tanker explosion at Potsin in Ghana’s Central Region on Tuesday morning, March 17, 2026. The incident occurred along the Winneba–Accra highway after personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) had largely contained an earlier fire involving the tanker.
According to the GNFS, the tanker carrying 54,000 litres of petrol caught fire under unknown circumstances, prompting an emergency response from fire crews based in Apam and Kasoa. Firefighters arrived to find the vehicle fully ablaze, with flames spreading to nearby areas. After nearly two hours, the fire was brought under control.
However, during subsequent cooling operations aimed at preventing re-ignition, the tanker suddenly caught fire again and exploded, injuring 12 firefighters. Four sustained severe injuries, while eight suffered minor injuries and were treated on site. Three of the more seriously injured personnel were taken to the Winneba Trauma Specialist Hospital, and another was treated at the Potsin Polyclinic. All have since been treated and discharged.
The tanker driver and his assistant escaped unharmed. Fire officials remained at the scene to safely transfer the remaining fuel and prevent further risk.
Senior GNFS officers later visited the injured firefighters, praising their bravery. The service also reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, while highlighting the dangers faced by emergency responders.