Personnel of the National Ambulance Service have confirmed that nine people sustained injuries, while others were left traumatized following a devastating fire outbreak at Adum, in the heart of Kumasi’s Central Business District.
The fire, which started in the early hours of Friday, March 21, destroyed several shops and properties.
The inferno, which spread rapidly, was attributed to the congested nature of the Adum Market. Ashanti Regional Fire Commander, ACFO II Peter Tetteh, noted that firefighters struggled to navigate the area due to limited access.
As the flames raged, desperate shop owners hurriedly relocated their belongings to prevent further losses.
Speaking to Citi News after the fire was contained, the Ashanti Regional Manager of the National Ambulance Service, Sommik Duut Millon, revealed that some victims suffered panic attacks and were rushed to nearby health facilities for medical attention.
“We attended to many casualties. In fire outbreaks, it is common for people to experience panic attacks, and those involved in firefighting efforts can also sustain injuries. We treated about three firefighters who were injured and transported them to the Manhyia and Komfo Anokye hospitals.
“We also attended to victims who suffered panic attacks, with some in a traumatized state. In total, we managed about nine casualties, provided medical care, and later transferred them to the hospital. So far, feedback from the hospitals indicates that the victims are responding well to treatment, with some already discharged,” he added.