Nkwanta clashes: Police arrest eight after student killed by stray bullet

Eight people have been arrested following deadly clashes in Nkwanta South in Oti Region, which have claimed the lives of three students from Nkwanta Senior High School.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) John Nchor, Public Affairs Officer for the Oti Regional Police Command, told Joy News that security has been reinforced in Nkwanta and surrounding communities to prevent further violence and reassure residents.

“As I speak, calm has been restored in Nkwanta following the recent violent incidents. Swift and decisive actions have been taken to maintain law and order,” DSP Nchor said.

Police say additional patrols and new checkpoints have been set up across the region as part of broader security measures to deter further attacks and protect communities caught up in the clashes.

The violence, which local leaders blame on renewed tribal tensions, began on Thursday, 26 June, when two female day students — both General Arts students in Forms Two and Three — were struck by stray bullets while on their way home from school.

The situation worsened the following day when a male Business student in Form Three was killed by a stray bullet while seated in his classroom during mock examinations.

In response, the Ghana Education Service (GES) has shut down the Nkwanta Senior High School and arranged police escorts to ensure students can return home safely.

The tragic deaths have intensified concerns about community safety and the toll that recurring ethnic conflicts continue to take on young lives in the area. Local leaders and residents are now calling for dialogue and lasting reconciliation to break the cycle of violence.

The Ministry of Education has extended its condolences to the bereaved families and pledged to continue monitoring the situation to safeguard students, staff, and school property.