The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has issued a strong caution to the public against fuel siphoning following a diesel tanker accident at Nsawam Okanta on the Accra–Kumasi Highway, warning that the practice poses serious risks of fire, explosion, and loss of life.
The caution follows a swift emergency response by the GNFS after a DAF XF diesel tanker (registration number GC 1084-11) fell at the location, spilling diesel and creating the potential for a major fire or explosion.
Firefighters from the Suhum Municipal Fire Station were immediately deployed to the scene, where they applied foam and water to cool the tanker, control the diesel spillage, and secure the affected area. The prompt intervention successfully prevented casualties and protected lives and property.
The Police Service supported the operation by securing the scene and preventing fuel siphoning, while a recovery team worked to safely overturn the tanker and tow it to a secure location, restoring safety along the highway.
In a statement, the GNFS stressed that fuel siphoning is not only illegal but extremely dangerous, particularly at accident scenes involving petroleum products. The Service warned that any ignition source could trigger an explosion with devastating consequences.
The GNFS has therefore urged residents and motorists to stay away from accident scenes and allow trained emergency responders to manage such incidents professionally, emphasizing that public cooperation is critical to preventing avoidable tragedies.
