Nkwanta Violence Claims Three Student Lives, Eight Arrested
Tensions in Nkwanta South, located in Ghana’s Oti Region, have escalated into deadly violence, resulting in the deaths of three students from Nkwanta Senior High School. The Ghana Police Service has confirmed the arrest of eight individuals believed to be connected to the disturbances.
Police Reinforce Security to Curb Violence
Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) John Nchor, the Oti Regional Police Command’s Public Affairs Officer, told Joy News that calm has been restored. He highlighted that rapid intervention, including increased patrols and newly established checkpoints across affected communities, has helped stabilize the situation.
“Calm has returned to Nkwanta following swift security operations to contain the violence and protect residents,” DSP Nchor stated.
Stray Bullets Kill Students Amid Tribal Tensions
The unrest began on Thursday, June 26, when two female students — both studying General Arts — were hit by stray bullets while walking home. The situation escalated further on Friday when a male Business student in Form Three was shot and killed by a stray bullet while sitting in his classroom during mock examinations.
School Closed, GES Responds with Police Escort
The Ghana Education Service (GES) has shut down Nkwanta Senior High School and arranged for police to safely escort students home. The move is aimed at safeguarding lives amid fears of further attacks.
Calls for Peace and Lasting Solutions
Local leaders and residents attribute the violence to resurging ethnic conflicts in the region. They are urging all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue and reconciliation to end the cycle of violence.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education has extended its condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public of its commitment to ensuring the safety of students, teachers, and school infrastructure across the country.
Source: http://graphic.com.gh/
