Four people have been burnt beyond recognition following a fuel tanker explosion on the Nsawam–Accra highway in the early hours of Saturday, February 14, 2026.

Several others are in critical condition and are receiving treatment at the Nsawam Government Hospital, while some have been referred to medical facilities in Accra and Koforidua for advanced care, according to rescue teams at the scene.

Preliminary reports indicate that the explosion followed a collision involving the tanker and another vehicle, and triggered a massive blaze which engulfed about five vehicles and five motorbikes.

The four victims died at the scene from severe burns sustained in the inferno, with emergency responders unable to rescue them due to the intensity of the fire.

The extent of injuries among survivors suggests the death toll could rise, as some of the critically injured victims continue to battle for their lives in various hospitals.

Thick plumes of smoke billowed from the accident site, causing alarm among motorists and residents in nearby communities along the busy highway.

Personnel from the Ghana National Fire Service are at the scene working to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other vehicles and properties.

The Fire Service has cordoned off the affected area as firefighting operations continue, with officers battling to bring the blaze under control.

Medical personnel and ambulance services have been deployed to transport the injured to hospitals, with the Nsawam Government Hospital receiving the majority of casualties.

Those in critical condition have been referred to better-equipped facilities in Accra and Koforidua, where they can receive specialised burn treatment and intensive care.

The incident has caused significant traffic disruption along the Nsawam–Accra stretch, one of the busiest highways connecting the Eastern Region to the capital.

Motorists have been advised to exercise extreme caution when approaching the area, as long queues have formed on both sides of the highway.

Police personnel are at the scene managing traffic flow and diverting vehicles to alternative routes where possible.