One dead, four injured during fire festival celebrations in Salaga

One person has died while four others sustained gunshot injuries during this year's Fire Festival celebrations in Salaga on Wednesday, June 24, 2026.

The deceased, identified as Shehu, a resident of Mallam, reportedly died during a traditional ritual display believed by participants to demonstrate spiritual fortitude. According to eyewitnesses, he had completed two earlier stages of the display before suffering fatal injuries during a subsequent attempt.

In a separate incident, four people were struck by stray bullets after a celebrant allegedly discharged a firearm near the Salaga Roundabout. The victims, who were said to be bystanders, were hit during the festivities.

The injured were rushed to a nearby health facility for medical treatment. Their current conditions have not been officially disclosed.

Police are yet to issue a formal statement on the incidents, but investigations are expected to establish the circumstances surrounding both the fatality and the shooting.

The annual Fire Festival, celebrated in several communities across northern Ghana, attracts large crowds and features various traditional activities. However, concerns have often been raised about public safety during some aspects of the celebrations.

Shehu's death brings to two the number of reported fatalities this year linked to attempts to demonstrate supposed spiritual powers. Earlier this year, the youth chief of Ayanfuri reportedly died after accidentally shooting himself during a similar display.