Police warn against reckless gun use at festivals after student’s death

The Accra Regional Police Command has issued a strong warning against the growing trend of firing guns at public and cultural events, following the tragic death of a student during the Fire Festival in Bimbilla.

At a press briefing in Accra, Superintendent Juliana Obeng, Head of Public Affairs for the Command, condemned the reckless discharge of firearms, calling it a “grave threat to public safety and lives.”

“We strongly condemn the reckless and unlawful use of firearms at public and cultural events,” she stated. “Possession and discharge of firearms without lawful authority is a serious offence, and violators will be dealt with according to the law.”

The warning comes in the wake of the death of Fatima, a second-year student at Bimbilla Senior High School, who was killed by a stray bullet during a traditional procession on July 6. The incident occurred as crowds marched from the regent’s palace to Wampu Dam to mark the annual festival.

The police have expressed concern over a worrying shift in cultural practices—from traditional musketry to the use of live ammunition and high-powered firearms at festivals.

With the Homowo Festival and other cultural celebrations fast approaching, the Command is urging the public to cooperate with law enforcement and report any illegal activity involving weapons.

“We want to ensure a peaceful and safe environment for all participants,” Superintendent Obeng said.

Authorities say they are on high alert and will take firm action against anyone found breaching firearm regulations during these events.