Bimbilla SHS student killed by a stray bullet during fire festival

The firing of guns during the Fire Festival (Bugum Chugu) celebration on Saturday, July 5 has resulted in the confirmed death of one individual in Bimbilla.

According to reports, a stray bullet struck the victim’s neck, killing Fatima, a Bimbilla Senior High School student, instantaneously. It is said that during the celebrations, a celebrant brandished a little arm and fired the bullet. Security staff have subsequently taken her body to the hospital morgue.

Although the Municipal Security Council had previously warned that participants should not discharge firearms or other harmful equipment, witnesses report that the celebrations were characterized by widespread firing and the use of explosives.

Days prior to the terrible event, the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons had issued a stern public advise asking people to refrain from displaying and abusing small arms during the Fire Festival, especially in the northern regions.

The Commission reminded the public in a statement written by Dr. Adam Bonaa, Acting Executive Secretary:

• 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 reckless use of firearms during celebrations poses grave risks, including accidental shootings, injuries, and fatalities,” the statement warned.

The Commission also asked everyone who was celebrating to appropriately respect cultural customs and notify the police of any questionable firearm activity.

The incident has been investigated by Bimbilla police as public indignation over the ongoing usage of weapons at cultural celebrations continues to increase.

Source: Ghanatodayonline.com