The Ashanti Regional Security Council has taken a proactive step by implementing a 24-hour surveillance directive in markets and various strategic installations across the region.

The primary objective of this order is to empower the Ghana National Fire Service to closely monitor the activities of traders and stakeholders in markets, especially focusing on preventing potential fire outbreaks during the harmattan season.

Ashanti Regional Minister Simon Osei-Mensah officially announced this precautionary measure during a meeting convened by the Regional Coordinating Council on December 21.

Expressing concern over the recent market fires in the capital, he highlighted the need for increased vigilance to avert similar incidents in the region.

At least two significant market fires had already been recorded in the capital earlier in the month, resulting in substantial financial losses.

Minister Osei-Mensah underscored the importance of creating a collaborative environment for the Ghana National Fire Service to carry out its operations effectively, particularly during the harmattan season.

He urged all Municipal, Metropolitan, and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs) to allocate spaces for the fire service to monitor markets day and night.

“The advent of the harmattan is noted for its attendant fire outbreaks. The collaboration between the National Commission for Civic Education, the Information Services Department and the Ghana National Fire Service to educate our people on best preventive, as well as fire preventing measures to save life and properties is very critical.

“Let us pay a very critical attention to our markets and national installations since they could be target for fires. In this regard I have directed all Assemblies to make available spaces for the fire service to ensure that the markets are monitored day and night”, Osei-Mensah stated.

“Defaulting Assemblies will [have to] explain to the Council why the default for necessary action”, he warned.

The minister issued a stern warning that Assemblies failing to comply with this directive would be required to explain their default to the Council, facing necessary consequences for their inaction.