Bimbilla SHS student killed by stray bullet during fire festival celebration
A tragic incident marred the celebration of this year’s Fire Festival (Bugum Chugu) in Bimbilla, Northern Region, as one person was confirmed dead following the discharge of firearms during the festivities on Saturday, July 5.
The deceased, identified as Fatima, a student of Bimbilla Senior High School, reportedly died instantly after being struck in the neck by a stray bullet. According to eyewitnesses, the bullet was allegedly fired by a celebrant using a small arm amid the jubilation. Security personnel have since conveyed her body to the hospital morgue.
Despite prior warnings from the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC), the celebrations were characterised by widespread gunfire and the use of explosives, creating scenes of chaos and endangering public safety.
The incident occurred just days after the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons issued a public advisory urging citizens—especially those in the northern regions—to refrain from the use of small arms during traditional festivals. The advisory, signed by Acting Executive Secretary Dr. Adam Bonaa, cautioned that:
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- Firearms are not toys and their misuse endangers lives.
- Unauthorized possession and firing of guns is illegal and punishable by law.
- The true spirit of the Fire Festival should be celebrated without violence.
“The reckless use of firearms during celebrations poses grave risks, including accidental shootings, injuries, and fatalities,” the Commission stressed in its statement.
As public outrage mounts over the repeated misuse of firearms during such cultural events, police in Bimbilla have launched investigations into the incident. Authorities are calling on the public to assist in identifying those who flouted the safety directives and to report any suspicious firearm activity.
Meanwhile, civil society groups and community leaders are renewing calls for stricter enforcement of gun laws and public education to ensure that cherished cultural traditions like the Fire Festival are observed peacefully and without loss of life.
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