Midnight fire ravages Sunyani Circuit and District courts, destroys critical legal records

A midnight fire has gutted the Sunyani Circuit Court and District Court “B” complex, completely destroying critical legal documents, case files, and office equipment.

The blaze broke out around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, reducing the facility to ashes and leaving courtrooms filled with debris and charred remains. The roof partially caved in, and thick smoke blackened the walls, underscoring the intensity of the inferno.

Total destruction, cause unknown

Bono Regional Fire Commander, Assistant Chief Fire Officer Grade I (ACFOI) Cecil Addo, told journalists that the destruction was total, and the cause of the fire has not yet been established.

Inside the complex, essential court materials—including case files, record books, computers, and other office equipment—were completely destroyed. Wooden benches and furnishings were also reduced to ashes.

Firefighters from the Ghana National Fire Service battled the blaze for about eight hours before bringing it under control. When journalists visited the scene on Sunday morning, officers were still working to contain residual flames.

Eyewitness account

A security officer on duty, Salam Baba Mamudu, said the fire started while he was inside the building. He recounted hearing unusual sounds from the ceiling moments before parts of it began to collapse.

“Smoke quickly filled the building, making it hard for me to see. I couldn’t find my way out,” he said, explaining that nearby residents helped him to escape.

Water shortage hampered response

ACFOI Addo said efforts to contain the fire were severely hampered by water shortages. Fire tenders ran out of water, and attempts to access hydrants in Sunyani proved unsuccessful as they were not functioning.

Firefighters also turned to Ghana Water Limited for supply but were unable to secure water. Eventually, water had to be procured from a private source at Bakoniaba to continue the operation.

“Because of the delay, the fire started again at some point before they finally brought it under control,” he said.

Anxiety among litigants

The incident has caused anxiety among litigants, particularly those with cases nearing judgment. Many rushed to the scene seeking clarity on the fate of their cases.

Police officers, firefighters, and court staff were later seen salvaging what remained of the burnt items.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.