Tragedy in Nchiraa: Two Dead and 14 Injured as Gunfire Mars Yam Festival Celebration

Two Dead in Nchiraa Yam Festival Violence as Police Pursue Suspects in Regional Chieftaincy Disputes

The Wenchi Divisional Police Command has successfully restored order in Nchiraa, Bono Region, following a violent outbreak during a Yam festival on October 3, 2026. The disturbances resulted in the deaths of two individuals and left 14 others injured, including a police officer. Preliminary reports indicate that the unrest was ignited around 5:30 p.m. as traditional leaders, including Nana Tabiri Yaw II and his sub-chiefs, were being escorted back to the palace after the festival’s conclusion. In the wake of the tragedy, police have intensified patrols across the Nchiraa community to prevent any further escalation of violence. The bodies of the deceased have been transported to the Wenchi Methodist Hospital for autopsy. Authorities have assured the public that they are actively pursuing the individuals responsible for the disturbances and have urged residents to remain calm while investigations continue to determine the exact cause of the clash. In a separate but related effort to maintain regional stability, police in the North East Region are also continuing a manhunt for seven individuals involved in a deadly chieftaincy dispute in Bunkprugu. This includes Melchizedek Babotin Musah, whose alleged illegal installation as a rival chief by the Jamong Family—in defiance of a court order—triggered confrontations. That violence led to the death of one woman and injuries to a soldier, highlighting the volatile nature of local leadership disputes that the police are currently working to resolve across the country. The Ghana Police Service remains committed to upholding the rule of law and protecting lives during traditional celebrations and internal community disputes. With investigations ongoing in both Nchiraa and Bunkprugu, security officials have reiterated that no person found guilty of inciting violence will be spared. They encourage the public to provide any information that could lead to the arrest of those who continue to disregard legal prohibitions and traditional protocols.