A violent incident marred the annual Yam Festival in Nchiraa, Ghana, on October 3, 2026, resulting in two fatalities and 14 injuries, including a police officer. The Bono Regional Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the violence erupted at about 5:30 p.m. after the festival programme had ended. The Nchiraahene, Nana Tabiri Yaw II, and his sub-chiefs were being escorted to the palace when a gunshot was heard, triggering disturbances.
According to the police, the gunfire during the chiefly procession caused widespread panic, leading to the injuries and fatalities. The injured were rushed to the Wenchi Methodist Hospital for treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited at the mortuary for preservation and autopsy. The police have launched an investigation into the incident, with preliminary findings indicating that the gunshot was the trigger for the disturbances.
The Bono Regional Police Command, in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Thomas Akeelah, assured the public that calm has been restored in the area. The police have intensified patrols to prevent further disturbances and are working to arrest those involved in the incident. The authorities have urged residents to remain calm and go about their daily activities.
The Nchiraa Yam Festival, a significant event in the community, was disrupted by the violent incident. The festival, which celebrates the harvesting of yams, is an essential part of the local culture. The incident has raised concerns about the security situation in the area and the need for increased measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The police have identified the victims as two local residents, whose names have not been released. The injured, including the police officer, are receiving treatment at the Wenchi Methodist Hospital. The hospital has reported that the injured are in stable condition, and efforts are being made to provide them with the necessary medical care.
The incident has sparked a mixed reaction from the local community, with some residents expressing shock and concern about the violence. Others have called for increased security measures to prevent such incidents in the future. The authorities have assured the public that they are working to address the security concerns and prevent similar incidents.
An investigation into the incident is ongoing, with the police working to identify the individuals responsible for the gunfire. The authorities have appealed for calm and urged residents to cooperate with the police during the investigation. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for increased vigilance and security measures during public gatherings and celebrations.
Key points
- Two people were killed and 14 others injured, including a police officer, during a violent incident at the Nchiraa Yam Festival in Ghana.
- The incident occurred on October 3, 2026, when gunshots were fired during a chiefly procession, triggering disturbances.
- The police have restored calm in the area, intensified patrols, and are working to arrest those involved in the incident.
