Oti Region: One dead, several injured in Abotaose Market fire

One person has died and several others sustained severe burns after a fire swept through parts of the Abotaose Market in the Biakoye District of the Oti Region.

The incident occurred at about 2 p.m. on Saturday, with preliminary reports indicating that the fire started after a premix fuel storage facility allegedly came into contact with a household fire.

The flames subsequently spread to parts of the market, destroying several structures.

A victim who was reportedly sleeping in a nearby shed when the fire started became trapped and suffered severe burns.

He was rushed to the Worawora Hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Several other victims who sustained varying degrees of burns were also conveyed to the same hospital, where they are receiving medical attention.

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

However, the Acting District Fire Officer for Biakoye, ADOI Desmond Addo, told Citi News that preliminary findings suggested the storage of premix fuel at the market could have contributed to the outbreak.

The fire was eventually brought under control with the assistance of community volunteers.

The incident has, however, sparked concerns over the response time of professional firefighters, as personnel reportedly had to travel from Dambai and Kpando to reach the affected community.