President John Dramani Mahama has issued directives to tighten security around major markets nationwide to address the recent spate of market fires.
Speaking after a delegation of traders from Kantamanto Market paid him a courtesy call, the President noted the urgency of the situation and outlined measures to prevent further occurrences.
President Mahama disclosed that he had convened a meeting with security heads to devise strategies for enhancing market security.
“We held a meeting with the security heads today to discuss how we can tighten security around all major markets to prevent such occurrences. Just this morning, we heard about a fire at the Techiman Market, which indicates that this trend may continue unless we take immediate steps.
“I’ve asked the security to arrange with the various security services to tighten seocurity around major markets,” he noted.
The directive comes in the wake of repeated market fires, including the Kantamanto Market fire which claimed one life and destroyed a number of shops, and a recent incident at the Techiman Market, which has raised concerns about possible foul play.
Acknowledging the suspicious nature of the fires, which often occur at night, the President announced plans to deploy Ghana National Fire Service personnel and equipment to strategic locations.
“In the night, when these fires typically occur, the Ghana National Fire Service will position their fire tenders close to major markets. This will enable them to respond quickly to any outbreak and minimise damage,” he explained.
President Mahama also proposed the installation of CCTV cameras at vantage points in markets to monitor activities and identify potential arsonists.
The President expressed his commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of traders, emphasising the need to protect markets as critical economic hubs.
“These measures are necessary to ensure the safety of our traders and prevent such incidents from destroying their hard work and investments,” he assured.