Update:Siphoning Turns Deadly as Tanker Explosion Rocks Ntoaso on Accra–Kumasi Highway

Update:Siphoning Turns Deadly as Tanker Explosion Rocks Ntoaso on Accra–Kumasi Highway

 A tragic twist has emerged in the earlier fuel tanker explosion at Ntoaso near Nsawam, with fresh eyewitness accounts indicating that unauthorised fuel siphoning triggered the deadly blaze that destroyed vehicles and claimed lives.

According to information gathered from emergency responders and eyewitnesses, the tanker reportedly developed a mechanical fault and broke down along the busy highway. However, instead of maintaining a safe distance, several residents, motor riders, and drivers rushed toward the vehicle in an attempt to siphon petrol.

Eyewitness accounts indicate that some individuals used metal tools to pierce the tanker, causing fuel to spill onto the road and surrounding areas. The leaked fuel quickly turned the environment into a high-risk zone.

Moments later, the petrol ignited, resulting in a powerful explosion and massive fire outbreak that trapped several people and vehicles near the tanker.

Multiple casualties and injuries have been recorded following the explosion. Witnesses reported that individuals attempting to collect fuel were caught in the flames alongside motorcycles, a taxi, and other vehicles that had drawn close to the tanker.

One of the most distressing scenes involved a woman carrying a baby who sustained severe burns during the incident. The child was rescued and rushed to safety amid the confusion.

Reports also confirm that two occupants of a taxi that had approached the tanker lost their lives, while several others sustained serious burn injuries.

The tanker driver was also critically injured and is currently receiving medical treatment. Other victims have been transported to the Nsawam Government Hospital for emergency care.

The fire spread to a passenger bus, but swift action by the driver ensured that all passengers were evacuated before the vehicle was engulfed in flames. Although the bus was severely damaged, no passenger casualties were recorded.

The Eastern South Regional Police Commander, DCOP Boadi Bossman, confirmed that the tanker had broken down prior to the explosion and stated that the unauthorised siphoning of fuel significantly worsened the situation.

Personnel from the Ghana Police Service, Ghana National Fire Service, and National Disaster Management Organisation are currently managing the aftermath of the explosion. Their operations include crowd control, fire containment, debris clearance, and restoration of safety along the highway.

The explosion has disrupted traffic flow along the stretch between Nsawam and Suhum. Police have redirected vehicles through the Nsawam Old Road while emergency operations continue.

Recounting the events, journalist and senior reporter with the Daily Digest Newspaper, Alhaji Bampoe, described chaotic scenes at the site, noting the speed at which the fire spread after fuel began leaking from the tanker.

Authorities are continuing investigations to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident, including possible accountability for the unlawful siphoning that led to the explosion.

Further updates are expected as emergency services assess the full extent of casualties and property damage.