Fire tears through SIC Insurance building in Takoradi, damages TV station and offices

A major fire outbreak has damaged parts of the SIC Insurance building in Takoradi, affecting a television station, corporate offices and valuable equipment as emergency crews battled to prevent the blaze from spreading further.

The incident occurred on Wednesday morning and is believed to have originated from the studio of New Day TV, which operates from the multi-storey building. By the time firefighters brought the situation under control, sections of three floors had been affected.

Among the offices impacted were units occupied by SIC Life, while equipment, documents and other operational materials belonging to various organisations were reportedly destroyed or damaged. Property belonging to Greenfields, including protective and offshore equipment stored in the building, was also affected.

Emergency responders from the Ghana National Fire Service and the Ghana Ports and Harbours Authority were dispatched after a distress call was received. Fire crews from Sekondi, Apremdo and GPHA joined efforts to contain the blaze using three fire tenders.

Western Regional Public Relations Officer of the GNFS, ADO I Linda Pongo, said materials used within parts of the building contributed to the intensity of the fire. According to her, soundproofing foam and plastic ceiling materials helped fuel the flames once the fire spread.

Witnesses at the scene described moments of uncertainty as thick smoke engulfed parts of the building. One eyewitness claimed firefighters initially had to wait for electricity to be disconnected before commencing full firefighting operations, citing safety concerns over the active power supply.

The incident prompted the evacuation of workers and occupants from affected sections of the facility while emergency teams worked to contain the fire.

Although the extent of the destruction is still being assessed, authorities say the total cost of damaged property has not yet been determined.

No fatalities or serious injuries had been reported as of the time information was released.

Investigators are expected to examine the scene to establish the exact cause of the fire and determine how it spread through multiple sections of the building. Officials say a comprehensive assessment will also be conducted to quantify losses suffered by the affected organisations.

Source: 3News