The Ghana National Fire Service has launched an investigation into the collapse two-storey dor­mitory building collapsed at Richmere Vocational Institute (RVI), near Kasoa in Central Region.

According to the Assistant Divisional Officer 1 Alex King Nartey, the collapse in resulted in the deaths of three individuals-two females, aged 16 and 18, and a carpenter.

Speaking to JoyNews on August 26, he said although 17 people were inside the Richmere Vocational Institute at the time of collapse the three were the victims.

 “Unfortunately, three individuals—two females aged 18 and 16 and a carpenter—died at the hospital. The collapsed building was a dormitory under construction and was not yet inhabited.

• Read also : Three construction workers perish in Kasoa building collapse

Resident said that the incident occurred while the workers were pouring concrete for the first floor of a multi-storey building.

But, the Assistant Divisional Officer said his outfit is yet to verify that information. However, he assured the service was working round the clock to ensure that it ascertain the incident leading to the collapse.

“Our investigation will ensure that all proper procedures were followed, including securing necessary permits and fire certificates. This incident underscores the need for strict adherence to building regulations, particularly for commercial properties.”

Mr Nartey also highlighted that, among the 12 casualties, Fire Service personnel successfully rescued and provided aid to those affected through their diligent efforts.

On August 25, three construction workers were reported to have perished after a building they were working on collapsed.

A survivor on site reported that a carpenter and two other workers were trapped under the debris from the collapse.