One person has been confirmed dead in Bimbilla following chaotic scenes of gunfire during this year’s Fire Festival (Bugum Chugu) celebrations on Saturday, July 5.
The victim, identified as Fatima, a student of Bimbilla Senior High School, was struck in the neck by a stray bullet and died on the spot.
According to reports, the fatal shot was fired by a participant using a small firearm in the heat of the festivities.
Her body was later transported to the morgue by security personnel.
Eyewitnesses described the festival atmosphere as tense and dangerous, marked by uncontrolled gunfire and explosions, despite clear warnings issued earlier by the Municipal Security Council.
These warnings, aimed at preventing exactly such a tragedy, urged celebrants to refrain from using firearms or any dangerous implements.
Yet, the appeals went largely ignored, resulting in the loss of a young life and renewed calls for tighter enforcement.
The tragedy has reignited national concern, especially as it occurred just days after the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons issued a stern public advisory.
In a statement signed by Acting Executive Secretary Dr. Adam Bonaa, the Commission warned that “firearms are not toys” and reminded the public that “unauthorized possession and firing of guns is illegal and punishable by law.”
As investigations begin, public outrage continues to mount over the persistent and unlawful use of firearms during cultural events.
