Omanghana
An elderly man believed to be in his seventies has died after becoming trapped in a burning residential building at Aputuogya in the Bosomtwe District of the Ashanti Region.
Relatives identified the deceased pensioner as Agya Poku. He was reportedly unable to escape as the fire rapidly spread through the five-room property.
The tragedy was compounded by reports that thieves stole cash and other valuables from occupants while residents and firefighters were attempting to control the blaze.
Firefighters Find Victim Inside Room
The Bosomtwe District Fire Service dispatched an emergency team after receiving a distress call about a residential property on fire behind a local clinic.
Personnel entered the structure despite the intense heat and dangerous conditions. However, they found Agya Poku dead inside one of the rooms.
The operation was led by Bosomtwe District Fire Commander ADO1 Addo-Korang. Firefighters worked to contain the flames and prevent the fire from spreading to nearby properties.
Thieves Exploit Confusion at Fire Scene
Neighbors and other community members gathered at the scene to help tenants remove household items from the burning building.
However, some occupants later reported that opportunistic individuals took advantage of the confusion to steal their belongings.
Cash and other valuable items belonging to the displaced families were allegedly taken while attention was focused on rescuing occupants and salvaging property.
The reported thefts added to the distress of residents who had already lost their home and possessions in the fire.
Police and Fire Service Open Investigations
Agya Poku’s remains have been transported to a mortuary for preservation and further examination.
Fire authorities have started investigating the cause of the blaze. Law enforcement officers are also examining the reported thefts and working to identify those responsible.
The precise origin of the fire has not yet been determined. Authorities are expected to assess the damaged structure, interview witnesses and examine the circumstances surrounding the incident as the joint investigation continues.
Source: Omanghana
