Bimbilla Student Killed by Stray Bullet Amid Gunfire Celebrations

A tragic shadow was cast over this year’s Fire Festival (Bugum Chugu) celebrations in Bimbilla as a female student from Bimbilla Senior High School, identified only as Fatima, was killed by a stray bullet during the event on Saturday, July 5.

Fatima was reportedly struck in the neck by a bullet allegedly fired by a festival celebrant using a small arm. She died instantly, and her body was later conveyed to the morgue by security personnel.

■ Gunfire and Explosives Despite Warnings

Eyewitnesses described chaotic scenes during the festivities, which were marred by widespread gunfire and explosive discharges. This occurred despite repeated warnings from the Nanumba North Municipal Security Council, which had earlier urged celebrants to avoid discharging firearms or using dangerous implements during the traditional festival.

■ National Advisory Ignored

The incident comes on the heels of a public advisory by the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, which had called on the public to desist from displaying and misusing small arms during the Fire Festival, especially in the northern regions.

In a statement signed by Acting Executive Secretary Dr. Adam Bonaa, the Commission had stressed that:

● Firearms are not toys, and their misuse is dangerous and unlawful.

● Unauthorized gun possession and firing is a crime under Ghanaian law.

● The spirit of the Fire Festival must be upheld peacefully, without violence.

“The reckless use of firearms during celebrations poses grave risks, including accidental shootings, injuries, and fatalities,” the Commission stated.

■ Public Outrage and Police Investigation

Fatima’s death has sparked widespread public outrage, with many Ghanaians on social media and in the local community demanding stricter enforcement of laws against gun use during public and cultural events.

The Bimbilla Police Command has since launched a full-scale investigation into the incident, promising to bring all responsible individuals to justice.

Meanwhile, calls are growing for local authorities, traditional leaders, and law enforcement agencies to collaborate more closely in preventing future tragedies linked to firearm misuse during cultural festivals.