The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has cautioned the public against rushing to fuel tanker crash scenes to siphon fuel or obstruct emergency responders, describing the practice as illegal and extremely dangerous.
In a statement, the Service warned that such actions have, in the past, resulted in deadly explosions and loss of lives.
It stressed that individuals who engage in stealing or siphoning fuel from accident scenes will face arrest and prosecution.
According to the GNFS, the move to strictly enforce the law is intended to serve as a deterrent, protect lives, and safeguard property.
The Service noted that despite repeated public education campaigns, some members of the public continue to throng fuel tanker crash sites in attempts to collect spilled fuel, thereby exposing themselves to severe fire and explosion risks.
The GNFS linked the dangerous behaviour to perceived poverty, disregard for personal safety, and certain psycho-cultural factors, warning that such actions carry fatal consequences.
The Service has therefore urged the public to stay away from fuel tanker accident scenes and allow emergency personnel to carry out their duties without obstruction.
