Inspector Hance Atubra of the Tarkwa Divisional Police Headquarters in the Western Region of Ghana has been promoted to the rank of Chief Inspector by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr Christian Tetteh Yohuno, following his courageous intervention during a fire outbreak at Aboso in the Western Region.
The promotion comes after Inspector Atubra reportedly risked his safety to assist residents trapped by the blaze at the Aboso Main Lorry Station on August 26, 2026.
The fire, which engulfed a number of shops at the station, destroyed property and triggered a frantic response from residents and emergency responders.
Inspector Atubra, who was reportedly among the first police officers at the scene, went beyond his conventional policing duties to assist in the rescue and evacuation of people caught in the affected area. He also joined efforts to contain the fire and prevent further danger to residents and property.
His actions subsequently earned him widespread praise from residents, with videos circulating on social media showing young people carrying the officer shoulder-high through the community in a spontaneous celebration of his bravery.
The residents had earlier called on the IGP to formally recognise and promote the officer, describing his intervention as an exceptional demonstration of courage and commitment to duty.
The unusual public tribute attracted considerable attention online, particularly because the community’s response went beyond verbal commendation, with residents physically parading the officer through the town as a hero.
The Ghana National Fire Service has the primary mandate for firefighting, but the Aboso incident demonstrated the importance of coordinated action during emergencies, with the police officer stepping in to assist affected residents while firefighting efforts were underway.
The IGP’s decision to promote Inspector Atubra effectively answers the call by the Aboso community and provides official recognition for his actions during the emergency.
The promotion also comes amid broader efforts by the Police Administration under IGP Yohuno to improve morale within the service and recognise officers who demonstrate commitment and professionalism. Earlier in 2026, the IGP promoted 12,802 police officers, with the promotions covering various ranks and addressing a backlog of promotions accumulated over several years.
For residents of Aboso, however, Inspector Atubra’s promotion represents more than a career advancement. It is a recognition of an officer whose actions during a moment of crisis earned him the rare distinction of being celebrated publicly by the community he served.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
