The Bolgatanga Technical Institute in Ghana’s Upper East Region has been closed indefinitely following a violent student riot that left six students injured and school property in ruins.
The unrest began shortly after midnight on Friday, August 15, when a group of students began throwing stones and vandalising buildings.
By the time police arrived, flames had already engulfed the school library and the senior housemaster’s office. The Ghana National Fire Service responded quickly and managed to contain the fire, but the damage was extensive.
Security officials believe the riot was triggered by the suspension of six students for misconduct a week earlier.
On the night of August 14, around 10:00 p.m., friends of the suspended students allegedly returned to campus with reinforcements and launched an attack in protest of the disciplinary action.
One eyewitness described the scene as chaotic and frightening.
“There was shouting, stones flying everywhere, and then the fire started. We were all scared and just trying to get to safety,” he said.
Six students sustained injuries during the incident and were rushed to the Upper East Regional Hospital. Police have since visited them and are maintaining a strong presence on campus to ensure the safe evacuation of remaining students.
The Upper East Regional Security Council (REGSEC) ordered the school’s closure to restore calm and allow for a full investigation.
Meanwhile, authorities are currently searching for six students believed to have led the protest and arson.