Gunman Opens Fire During Devastating Blaze at Madina Ritz Junction, Injuring 10
A chaotic scene unfolded at Madina Ritz Junction in Accra on Sunday, August 3, 2025, when a gunman, identified as “Area,” shot and injured at least 10 people during a raging fire that destroyed over 50 wooden structures and metal containers.
The fire, which broke out at a washing bay around 12:36 p.m., prompted a swift response from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), with firefighters from the Madina Fire Station arriving within four minutes, supported by four additional fire engines from Legon, Abelempke, and GNFS Headquarters.
The blaze was brought under control by 1:56 p.m., but not before causing significant destruction to residential and commercial structures, displacing scores of residents.
Amid the firefighting efforts, Ernest Opare, one of the victims, recounted a harrowing encounter to Adom News. He sustained bullet wounds to his forehead, back, and buttocks and is currently receiving treatment at Pentecost Hospital alongside four other victims. According to Opare, the shooter, enraged for reasons yet to be determined, brandished a pump-action gun and fired indiscriminately at people and into the air, even in the presence of police and fire officers.
Disturbingly, Opare accused the police of failing to intervene or arrest the suspect despite witnessing the violent act. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and authorities have yet to comment on the allegations of police inaction.
The fire, which razed densely packed makeshift structures, posed significant challenges for firefighters due to the flammable materials and limited access routes. No fatalities were reported, but the destruction of property has left many residents displaced.
The GNFS is investigating the cause of the fire, with preliminary reports suggesting a possible gas explosion as a trigger. This marks the second fire incident in the Madina Ritz Junction area in less than a month, raising concerns about recurring fire hazards in the densely populated slum.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report fire hazards or suspicious activities to emergency services immediately.
The Ghana Police Service has not yet issued a statement regarding the shooting or the allegations of inaction, but an investigation into both the fire and the shooting is underway.
