Calm has returned to Nchiraa in the Wenchi Municipality of the Bono Region following disturbances that erupted in the area on Saturday, October 3, 2026. The incident occurred during the 2026 celebration of the annual Yam Festival of the chiefs and people of Nchiraa. According to the Police, the disturbances resulted in two deaths and 14 injuries, including a police officer.
The incident occurred at about 1730 hours, after the festival ended, when Nana Tabiri Yaw II, Chief of Nchiraa, and his sub-chiefs were being escorted to the palace. Gunshots were heard, leading to the injuries and fatalities. The bodies of the deceased have been deposited at the Wenchi Methodist Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
Those who sustained gunshot wounds are currently responding to treatment. The Police have since intensified patrols in the area to maintain peace and order. An investigation into the incident is underway, with the Police working to identify and apprehend those involved in the disturbances.
The Bono Regional Police Administration has issued a statement confirming the incident. Chief Inspector Thomas Akeelah, Public Relations Officer, signed the statement, which was made available to the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Sunyani. The statement assured the public that every effort is being made to bring those responsible to justice.
The Yam Festival is an annual celebration in Nchiraa, and this year's event had ended peacefully before the disturbances erupted. The Police have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident has raised concerns about security in the area, particularly during festivals and celebrations.
The Ghana News Agency (GNA) has learned that the injured are receiving treatment at a local hospital. The Police have not released the names of the deceased or the injured, but it is understood that the incident is under investigation. The community is currently calm, with residents going about their daily activities.
The Nchiraa Yam Festival disturbances have raised concerns about the need for increased security measures during public events. The incident is a reminder of the importance of ensuring public safety, particularly in areas with high population densities. The Police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order in the area.
Key points
- Two people died and 14 others were injured during disturbances at the Nchiraa Yam Festival in the Bono Region of Ghana on October 3, 2026.
- The incident occurred when gunshots were heard while the Chief of Nchiraa and his sub-chiefs were being escorted to the palace after the festival.
- The Police have intensified patrols in the area and are working to apprehend those involved in the disturbances.