GNFS cuts sod for forensic laboratory construction

By Samira Larbie, GNA

Accra, Nov. 12, GNA - The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has cut sod for the construction of a forensic laboratory to boost fire investigations and other related incidents in the country.

The two-storey office block extension project would also facilitate the process of issuance of fire reports.

Mr Edwin Ekow Blankson, the Chief Fire Officer of the GNFS, said the project forms part of efforts to modernise the service to change the paradigm of the GNFS.

He said the need for a forensic laboratory could not be over-emphasised and that the project upon completion would also house the Operations and Fire Safety Directorates of the GNFS.

Mr Blankson said the GNFS is working with the University of Cape Coast to give proper forensic training to fire personnel to improve their skills and enable them carry out their duties.  

He said the GNFS has made contact with key players in the building industry who have pledged their support towards the project and expressed the hope that work would progress steadily.

The CFO also expressed gratitude to the National Insurance Commission for providing them with an initial cash of GH¢200,000.00 for the construction of the lab.

Mr Henry Quartey, the Deputy Interior Minister and Member of Parliament for the Ayawaso Central, commended the University of Cape Coast for collaborating with the GNFS by way of training personnel in forensic investigations.

 He said the upsurge of fire related crimes coupled with the sophisticated nature of other related incidents makes it extremely imperative to invest in such an edifice.

Mr Quartey said the lack of a forensic laboratory has always negatively impacted on the outcome and timeliness of the release of fire investigation reports.

“There have been occasions the service could not prove beyond reasonable doubt the activities of arsonists in court due to the absence of a forensic laboratory.

“It is my fervent hope that, this laboratory will drastically reduce if not bring an end the constraints faced by fire officers in investigating fires,” he said.

Mr Quartey urged the CFO to ensure that the investment would be put to its intended use to derive the utmost benefit from it and also urged the contractors to expedite work for early completion of the building.

Government is committed to ensuring that the GNFS executes its constitutionally mandated duties by providing the needed logistics and accoutrement for its operations, he added.

He announced that the service would soon take delivery of command vehicles for the use of Directors.

GNA

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