A late-night fire at Srodae in Koforidua has destroyed several shops and damaged parts of residential properties, leaving a one-storey building severely weakened with sections of the structure collapsing.

The fire broke out near the Old Traffic Light in the Central Business District on Saturday, October 3, 2026, in an area occupied by a row of old buildings serving both commercial and residential purposes.

Firefighters from the New Juaben North Municipal Fire Station were alerted at about 11:02 p.m. and arrived at the scene 13 minutes later with a 10-member crew led by SO II Nartey.

By the time firefighters arrived, the flames had engulfed the entire one-storey building. They immediately began efforts to contain the blaze, bringing it under control at about 1:23 a.m. before finally extinguishing it at 3:04 a.m.

The firefighting operation prevented the blaze from spreading to neighbouring businesses and properties, although the affected building suffered extensive damage.

Businesses lose property

Several businesses operating from the building reportedly lost stock and equipment in the fire.

Items destroyed included mobile phones and accessories, clothing, footwear, drinks, paints, electrical cables, personal care products and jewellery.

Air conditioners, lighting equipment, fascia boards, roofing sheets and other belongings were also destroyed.

The intensity of the fire severely weakened the building, resulting in the collapse of the entire first floor and parts of the ground floor.

Authorities have since secured the area and restricted public access due to concerns over the stability of the remaining structure.

Minister calls for demolition

The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Awatey, who visited the scene, said the condition of the building made demolition necessary to prevent a possible collapse and protect lives.

She explained that the structure was an old mud building and had been left in a highly compromised state following the fire.

The cause of the fire has not yet been established, with preliminary investigations underway.

Meanwhile, a 25-year-old man has been arrested after he was reportedly found attempting to remove items from one of the affected shops.

The incident has renewed concerns about the vulnerability of old commercial structures in densely populated parts of Koforidua, as authorities assess the extent of the damage and determine the next steps for the affected building.