Building collapses at North Industrial Area; two trapped as rescue efforts intensify

A large-scale rescue operation is currently ongoing at North Industrial Area after a building collapsed in the early hours of Sunday, June 7, leaving at least two people trapped beneath the rubble.

The collapse occurred around 4:25 a.m., prompting a swift emergency response from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces.

Initial reports from eyewitnesses suggest that one victim has already been rescued and taken to the hospital for treatment, while rescue teams continue efforts to locate and free others believed to be trapped under the debris.

Personnel from the Circle Fire Station and the GNFS Headquarters were among the first emergency responders dispatched to the scene. They are currently carrying out intensive search-and-rescue operations with the aid of specialised equipment.

Authorities have sealed off the area to support the rescue mission and minimise the risk of additional casualties.

Rescue teams are racing against time amid fears that parts of the collapsed structure may still be unstable. Heavy-duty equipment is expected to assist in clearing concrete debris and twisted metal obstructing access to the trapped victims.

Witnesses said they heard a loud crashing sound shortly before dawn, causing nearby residents and workers to rush to the scene.

“I heard a loud bang and when we stepped outside, the entire building had collapsed,” one eyewitness recounted.

The incident comes just days after another building collapse at Adenta, which reignited concerns over building safety regulations and enforcement standards in the country.