Dr Adam Bonaa, Acting Executive Secretary of National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons

The National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons is urging the government to expedite the passage of the new Firearms Regulation Bill in the wake of the growing misuse of weapons, particularly during traditional festivities.

This call follows the tragic death of a student from Bimbilla Senior High School, who was killed by a stray bullet during the Fire Festival in Bimbilla in the Northern Region.

According to a report by channelonenewsroom.com on July 7, 2025, the Acting Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr Adam Bonaa, said the current legal framework governing firearms in the country is outdated and ineffective.

“The laws we currently have for gun regulation are over 50 years old. From the Commission’s point of view, we have a bill at the ministerial level, waiting to be sent to Cabinet and eventually passed into law,” he stated.

Bonaa noted that in the absence of a dedicated regulator, firearms are increasingly falling into the wrong hands, including those of students.

“Children in second-cycle schools are stealing their parents’ sidearms and bringing them to school, but unfortunately, we are unable to properly address these issues. Once this bill is passed, a lot of changes will take place within the arms space in this country,” he indicated.

He added that while awaiting legislative action, the Commission continues to collaborate with security agencies to intensify public education and enforcement efforts.

MRA/MA

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