Police Detain Eight After SHS Students Die from Stray Bullet in Nkwanta Violence

Eight individuals have been taken into custody following violent clashes in Nkwanta South, located in the Oti Region, which have resulted in the deaths of three students from Nkwanta Senior High School.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) John Nchor, the Public Affairs Officer for the Oti Regional Police Command, informed Joy News that security in Nkwanta and nearby areas has been strengthened to prevent further unrest and to restore public confidence.

“Currently, peace has returned to Nkwanta after the recent disturbances. Quick and firm actions have been implemented to uphold law and order,” DSP Nchor stated.

According to the police, more patrol teams and additional checkpoints have been introduced across the region as part of enhanced security strategies to stop future violence and safeguard affected communities.

The conflict, which community leaders attribute to resurfacing tribal disputes, began on Thursday, 26 June. On that day, two female students in Forms Two and Three, both studying General Arts, were hit by stray bullets on their way home from school.

The tension escalated the next day when a male Form Three Business student was fatally shot by a stray bullet while sitting in his classroom during mock examinations.

In light of the tragic events, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has temporarily closed Nkwanta Senior High School and provided police escort services to help students return home safely.

The deaths have heightened fears over public safety and the ongoing impact of ethnic tensions on young people in the region. Community leaders and residents are now urging for peaceful dialogue and long-term solutions to end the repeated cycle of violence.