The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has sounded an urgent alarm over the increasing practice of oil siphoning from pipelines in the New Takoradi community, warning that the entire area is at risk of a catastrophic explosion.
During a community engagement held by Zen Petroleum and Ghanstock Limited, DO3 Emmanuel Simpson Acheampong from the GNFS emphasized the deadly consequences of the illegal activity.
He revealed that pipelines transporting petroleum products run along the full length and breadth of the community, placing thousands of residents in grave danger.
According to Mr. Simpson, siphoning petroleum productsoften done secretly by residents and opportunistic individuals not only violates the law but also exposes the entire community to fires, explosions, and long-term health risks.
“You’re literally sitting on a time bomb. The fumes from these pipelines are highly flammable. One small spark, one lit match, or even a phone call near a leaking area can trigger an explosion capable of wiping out the whole neighborhood,” he declared during the an interview with Angel News reporter Nana Fynn.
DO3 Simpson further explained that vapor from leaking fuel can travel long distances, making the source of ignition unpredictable. He referenced past tragedies in Takoradi Ghana and Nigeria involving gas explosions and fuel siphoning as stark reminders of the risks involved in mishandling petroleum products.
Management of Zen Petroleum and Ghanstock Limited, who operate within the enclave, organized the forum to sensitize residents on safety protocols and the importance of protecting critical national infrastructure.
The Operations Manager for Ghanstock Limited, Mr. Moses Bentsil, urged community members to act as watchdogs against illegal siphoning and report suspicious activities to the authorities.
Mr. Bentsil expressed concern over the relaxed attitude toward the pipelines.
The Assembly Member for Lower New Takoradi, Gilbert Afriyie, acknowledged the Fire Service’s warning but appealed for economic alternatives for the youth.
He identified poverty and unemployment as the root causes driving some residents to engage in the illegal practice. He urged government and stakeholders to support the youth with job opportunities and skills training programs.
Mr. Afriyie also appealed to the companies operating pipelines in the community to bury the pipelines as a safety measure and to reduce public exposure. He further called on the companies to intensify public education and collaborate with security agencies to enhance monitoring of the pipelines.
He concluded with a strong warning that anyone caught tampering with the pipelines would face the full rigors of the law.
