The Northern Regional Police Command has begun investigations into the death of a second-year student of the Bimbilla Senior High School, 18-year-old Fatima, who was struck by a stray bullet during the Fire Festival in Bimbilla.

The Fire Festival in Bimbilla, within the Nanumba North Municipality of the Northern Region, which began joyously, turned catastrophic following the death of the Senior High School student on Saturday, July 5.

The source of the gunshot remains unknown. Meanwhile, the bereaved family is demanding justice for the death of their loved one, who has been buried in accordance with Islamic customs.

This unfortunate incident occurred when the procession was moving from the regent's palace to the Wampu Dam, where the fire was to be thrown.

"I was at the palace when we heard the incident, so we rushed to the hospital, and the dead body was brought to the hospital. I even helped in removing the dead body," a reporter with Beat FM, Mohammed Abdul-Rashid Natogmah said.

According to reports, Fatima and a friend were at the festival without the knowledge of her parents, who had instructed them not to be present.

"When we asked, the lady told us the girl was from one area called Bayawaya in Bimbilla, and the name is Fatima. She said before they came out, the parents didn't want them to come out, so they hid and sneaked to the scene," Mohammed Abdul-Rashid Natogmah said.

Prior to the incident, the Ghana National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons cautioned against the display and misuse of firearms.

"The Fire Festival is a cherished cultural event meant to foster unity, joy, and tradition—not violence or fear. The reckless use of firearms during celebrations poses grave risks, including accidental shootings, injuries, and fatalities," a statement from the Commission read.

The Fire Festival is one of Ghana's most vibrant traditional events, featuring energetic processions with fire torches, rhythmic drumming, spirited dancing, and communal feasting.

Last month, the Accra Regional Police Command warned the general public against the use of live ammunition during the lifting of the customary ban on drumming and noise-making in the Greater Accra Region.

Police Command observed that some participants, especially sections of the youth, have resorted to firing live ammunition instead of using gunpowder or blank rounds.

The recent surging deaths of citizens during traditional festivals could compel the government to ban the use of live ammunition during such events to safeguard lives.