Three Injured as Firefighters Rescue 26 Passengers After Multi-Vehicle Crash Near Kintampo Waterfalls

Life Pulse Daily News Report

Introduction

A terrifying scene unfolded near the popular Kintampo Waterfalls in Ghana following a complex multi-vehicle collision that resulted in multiple injuries and a significant rescue operation. On Wednesday, December 28, 2025, emergency services were put to the test as they responded to a distress call involving a chain reaction crash that left 26 passengers trapped. The incident, which involved a Mercedes Sprinter bus catching fire, highlighted the critical role of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) in road accident response. This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the event, the rescue operation, the underlying causes, and vital safety advice for motorists navigating Ghana’s challenging road networks.

Key Points

Background

The Kintampo Waterfalls is a major tourist attraction located in the Bono East Region of Ghana. The area is known for its scenic beauty but also for the challenging terrain of the surrounding roads. The Bono East region has seen an increase in vehicular traffic, particularly involving commercial transport and heavy-duty trucks.

According to the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS), road traffic accidents remain a leading cause of emergency call-outs in the country. The region surrounding Kintampo has historically been a hotspot for vehicular incidents due to factors such as poor road conditions, speeding, and mechanical failures. This specific incident underscores the vulnerability of motorists in rural and semi-urban areas where heavy machinery and recovery vehicles are often used to clear obstructions.

Analysis of the Incident

The Timeline of the Crash

The emergency response was triggered at precisely 3:59 p.m. The GNFS received a frantic call reporting a multi-vehicle accident with potential casualties and fire risks. Recognizing the severity of the situation, a specialized rescue team was dispatched immediately. Due to the distance and terrain, the team arrived at the scene approximately one and a half hours later. This response time is critical in accident analysis, as the “Golden Hour” for medical treatment is often dictated by how quickly victims can be extracted and transported.

The Mechanics of the Collision

Investigators at the scene identified a chaotic chain of events. The primary instigator was a Kia Bongo truck which had reportedly slipped into a pit or ditch days prior to the incident. Recovery efforts were underway to tow this vehicle out of the ditch. However, the towing operation itself went awry.

A Mercedes Sprinter bus, a common model for inter-city transport in West Africa, was involved in a series of collisions. During the chaotic maneuvering, the Sprinter bus crashed into other parked vehicles. The impact was severe enough to cause the bus to ignite, adding a fire hazard to the already dangerous situation of trapped passengers. The combination of a stalled recovery operation and the sudden impact of a speeding bus created a perfect storm for a major disaster.

Rescue Operations

Upon arrival, firefighters faced a dual challenge: extricating 26 trapped passengers and managing a vehicle fire (the Mercedes Sprinter). The GNFS team worked to secure the perimeter to prevent the fire from spreading to other vehicles or nearby vegetation. Their primary focus was the safe extraction of the passengers. The ability to rescue 26 people without fatalities suggests a high level of coordination and professionalism under extreme pressure.

Practical Advice for Motorists

Based on the findings of this accident and the advisory issued by the GNFS, here are essential safety tips for drivers, particularly when traveling near accident scenes or engaging in towing operations:

Safety During Towing Operations

Towing is one of the most dangerous activities on the road. If you are the driver of a vehicle being towed or a passing motorist:

• Clear the Area: If you see a towing operation in progress, slow down significantly and give the vehicles a wide berth. Do not stop to film or rubberneck.
• Use Hazard Lights: Both the towing vehicle and the towed vehicle must have hazard lights activated to increase visibility.
• Secure the Load: Ensure that the tow rope or chain is properly secured and that safety chains are crossed under the tow bar to prevent the trailer from dropping if the coupler fails.

Defensive Driving Near Tourist Spots

Areas like Kintampo Waterfalls attract high volumes of tourists and commercial buses. Defensive driving techniques include:

• Maintain Safe Following Distance: Keep at least a 3-second gap between your car and the vehicle ahead. This gives you time to react to sudden stops.
• Anticipate Hazards: Be aware that rural roads may have unrepaired potholes, ditches, or stalled vehicles.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your brakes and tires are in top condition, as mountainous terrain can put extra strain on your vehicle.

What to Do in an Accident

If you are involved in or witness an accident:

1. Stop Immediately: Pull over to a safe location but do not obstruct the accident scene unless you are assisting.
2. Call Emergency Services: In Ghana, the emergency number for the Fire Service and Ambulance is 112 or 193. Provide clear location details (landmarks like Kintampo Waterfalls are helpful).
3. Do Not Approach Fire: If a vehicle is on fire, move away immediately and warn others. Do not attempt to rescue passengers from a burning vehicle without professional equipment.

FAQ

Conclusion

The multi-vehicle crash near Kintampo Waterfalls serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of road travel. While the swift action of the Ghana National Fire Service prevented a greater tragedy, the incident highlights the inherent risks of towing operations and the need for heightened vigilance on our roads. As we await further details from official investigations, the priority for all motorists should be adherence to safety protocols, particularly when navigating recovery zones or tourist-heavy routes. The recovery of the injured to Kintampo Municipal Hospital offers a glimmer of hope, but the incident demands a collective reflection on road safety standards.