A devastating fire engulfed a home in the Gbekor Community of Gbense Chiefdom, Kono District, on the night of Monday, June 10th, 2024. The blaze broke out between 8 and 9 PM, leaving the family residing there homeless and in urgent need of assistance.

Sahr Gideon Yambasu, a reporter for Eastern Community Radio, shared the details of the incident through his mother, Mrs. Bondu Alpha-Joe, who was present during the fire. Mrs. Alpha-Joe, along with her 6-year-old granddaughter, Fatmata Joe, were the only occupants of the house at the time.

Recounting the harrowing experience, Mrs. Alpha-Joe said, “After completing evening chores and prayers, I decided to rest for a moment in my shop, which is just 3 feet away from the house. While resting, I heard a ‘boom’ sound from inside. Hearing a similar sound again, I rushed to see what was happening. As I tried to open the main door, a female neighbor shouted that there was fire in our room. I opened the door and saw the flames raging from the master bedroom. I called for help and tried to contact my husband and children.”

Despite the quick response from neighbors and community members, the fire caused extensive damage by the time help arrived. Firefighters eventually reached the scene, but their efforts were hampered by the delay in their arrival. The blaze resulted in the loss of property worth thousands of Leones, along with cash, and it is suspected that some items were stolen amidst the chaos. Fortunately, there were no physical injuries or fatalities reported. The cause of the fire is still unknown.

The aftermath of the fire has left the family in a precarious situation, with no home, clothes, food, or other essential possessions. Sahr Gideon Yambasu made a heartfelt plea for assistance, saying, “This ugly situation now leaves my parents and siblings homeless and vulnerable. We are calling on humanitarians to come to our aid.”

The community of Gbekor and the wider public are urged to provide support to the affected family as they navigate this challenging time, striving to rebuild their lives after this unexpected disaster. The incident highlights the need for better emergency response mechanisms and community solidarity in times of crisis.