What began as a night of cultural celebration ended in sorrow in Bimbilla on Saturday, July 5, as a young student lost her life to a stray bullet during the annual Fire Festival, locally known as Bugum Chugu.
The victim, identified as Fatima, a student at Bimbilla Senior High School, was reportedly struck in the neck by a bullet fired from a small arm during the festivities. She died on the spot. Her body was later transported to the hospital morgue by security officials.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene where celebrants freely discharged firearms and set off explosives, defying repeated warnings from the Municipal Security Council. Authorities had earlier urged the public to avoid the use of guns and other dangerous implements during the festival, citing safety concerns.
Fatima’s death has sparked widespread outrage and reignited debate about the persistent use of firearms during traditional events, especially in Ghana’s northern regions. The incident came just days after a cautionary statement from the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons, which called on citizens to observe the festival peacefully.
In a strongly worded advisory signed by Acting Executive Secretary Dr. Adam Bonaa, the Commission reminded the public that: “Firearms are not toys, and their misuse endangers lives. Unauthorized possession and firing of guns is illegal and punishable by law. The spirit of the Fire Festival should be upheld without violence.”
The statement added: “The reckless use of firearms during celebrations poses grave risks, including accidental shootings, injuries, and fatalities.”
The Commission further called on celebrants to uphold the cultural significance of the Bugum Festival with discipline and to report any unlawful possession or use of firearms to the police.
Meanwhile, police in Bimbilla have launched an investigation into the shooting as community members and rights groups demand accountability and stricter enforcement of public safety laws during cultural events. Fatima’s death is now a grim reminder of the dangers posed by unchecked use of firearms at festivals meant to foster unity and tradition.
