The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for La Nkwantanang-Madina, Ibrahim Faila Fuseini, has alleged that the recent fire outbreak near the Madina Redco Flats is part of a calculated scheme by a private individual to seize state-acquired land.
According to the MCE, the August 3 blaze — which destroyed numerous makeshift wooden and metal structures at Ritz Junction — is the third fire incident in the same location within just three months. He suspects the recurring fires are not accidental.
“All indications suggest that this is a deliberate act by one person. Within three months, there have been three fire outbreaks in the same location,” Fuseini said in an interview with Citi News. “After each incident, this individual appears to engage the Lands Commission in an effort to clear the area.”
The fire, which broke out around midday, consumed shelters used for both residential and commercial purposes. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene as flames spread rapidly, destroying nearby utility poles and traders’ wares.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) confirmed that it received the emergency call at 12:36 p.m. A team from the Madina Fire Station arrived at the scene within four minutes and successfully brought the blaze under control by 1:56 p.m.
MCE Fuseini indicated that the affected land is government-owned and cannot be claimed for private development. He added that legal action would be taken if the ongoing investigation confirms the identity of the alleged saboteur.
“I am waiting for the final report. If it confirms the same name, I will take legal action and cause the arrest of the individual.
“We will pursue this matter through every legal means available,” he stressed. “Under the current leadership, that land will not be handed over.”
