A student of Bimbilla Senior High School has been confirmed dead in Bimbilla during the celebration of the Fire Festival on Saturday, July 5.
Reports suggest, the victim has been identified as Fatima.
According to reports, the student was hit in the neck by a stray bullet fired by a celebrant during the festival and died instantly.
The victim’s body has since been sent to the hospital morgue by security personnel.
Despite earlier warnings from the Municipal Security Council urging participants to refrain from discharging firearms, the warning fell on deaf ears, and the Fire Festival were marked by widespread gunfire and the use of explosives.
Meanwhile, the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons had earlier issued a stern warning urging citizens, particularly in the northern regions, to say no to the display and misuse of small arms during the Fire Festival.
The statement signed by the Acting Executive Secretary, Dr Adam Bonaa, stated, “The Fire Festival is a cherished cultural event meant to foster unity, joy, and tradition—not violence or fear,” the statement read. “The reckless use of firearms during celebrations poses grave risks, including accidental shootings, injuries, and fatalities.”
“We remind the public that: firearms are not toys, their misuse endangers lives. Unauthorized possession and brandishing of guns are illegal and punishable by law. Celebrate responsibly, uphold the true spirit of the festival without violence,” the advisory stated.
“Let us honor our traditions by promoting safety and harmony. Together, we can ensure a peaceful and memorable Fire Festival,” the statement concluded.
