The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has debunked claims that fees are being charged for the issuance of attestation letters related to fire and emergency incidents, particularly for victims of the recent Kantamanto fire.
This follows allegations that some GNFS officials were demanding illegal payments of up to GHS 1,000 per victim for fire reports.
These reports are essential for traders whose wares were destroyed in the fire to present as evidence to banks that granted them loans.
The claim was made by an anonymous staff member of a bank, who reported the matter to celebrated journalist Nana Aba Anamoah.
Nana Aba subsequently shared the message on her X account, where it has since gone viral, drawing widespread public outrage.
In response, the GNFS issued a press release signed by Divisional Officer Two, Desmond E. Ackah, Head of Public Relations, categorically denying the authorization of such practices.
The Service stated, “No fees are charged for the issuance of attestation letters.
Any officer found culpable will be dealt with in accordance with the GNFS’s disciplinary code.”
The GNFS further reassured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and urged affected individuals not to pay any fees for requesting attestation letters.
Anyone with information on the matter is encouraged to report to the GNFS Greater Accra Headquarters at Korle-Bu or contact the Public Relations Department on 050 960 8744.
