At Least 16 Worshippers Rescued So Far – Rescue Operation Ongoing Amid Concerns Over Structural Safety
A tragic building collapse at the Accra New Town Experimental School on Sunday afternoon has claimed two lives and left several worshippers trapped under rubble during a church service.
The incident occurred around 4:30 p.m. when the old structure, which had reportedly been converted into a makeshift place of worship, suddenly caved in while congregants were inside.
Rescue Efforts
The Ghana National Fire Service, Police, and local rescue teams responded swiftly to the scene. Emergency crews have so far rescued at least 16 worshippers from the debris. Operations are still ongoing as responders search for any remaining individuals who may be trapped.
Mayor of Accra, Hon. Michael Kpakpo Allotey, confirmed the death toll stands at two. Earlier reports from the scene indicated that two elderly individuals — a man and a woman — sustained injuries and were receiving medical attention.
Cause and Concerns
The exact cause of the collapse has not yet been determined. Authorities have not confirmed the total number of people who were inside the building at the time, making it difficult to assess the full scale of the tragedy.
This incident has once again raised serious concerns about the structural safety of old and converted buildings in densely populated areas of Accra, where such structures are often used for public gatherings, churches, and small businesses.
An investigation is expected to be launched into the structural integrity of the building and whether it met basic safety standards.
Rescue teams remain on site, and the focus continues to be on locating and extracting any remaining survivors while accounting for everyone who was present.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, the injured, and all those affected by this tragic event.
Source: Reports from Accra New Town, Ghana National Fire Service, and Mayor Michael Kpakpo Allotey (March 29, 2026)
