The  Ghana  Police Service has launched an investigation into deadly clashes that disrupted the Homowo Festival celebrations in the Accra suburbs of Sowutuom and Anyaa over the weekend, leaving three people dead and several others injured.

According to the Accra Regional Police Command, the violence erupted on Saturday, August 30, during a ceremonial rite involving the sprinkling of Kpokpoi, a traditional food served during the annual festival. A dispute between supporters of two rival chiefs reportedly escalated into an exchange of gunfire.

The incident triggered panic among festival-goers and led to further confrontations in the nearby community of Olebu, police said.

Three individuals—identified as Abubakar Ramadan Sarbah, also known as Nii Kwashiebu; Theophilus Nii Amu Kwadjan; and Joseph Shaibu Dodoo—were confirmed dead. Their remains have been transferred to the Police Hospital Mortuary for autopsy.

Four others sustained injuries, including Enoch Amevor, who has since been discharged. Samuel Adjei, Nathaniel Doku, and Frederick Lartey, also known as Nii Obrafour, remain hospitalized at facilities including Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and Ridge Hospital in Accra.

In a statement issued by Superintendent Juliana Obeng, head of public affairs for the Accra Region, police said additional personnel have been deployed to maintain order, and intelligence-led operations are underway to apprehend those responsible for the violence.

The Homowo Festival is a major cultural event for the Ga people of southern Ghana, traditionally celebrated to mark the end of famine. However, tensions over chieftaincy disputes have, in recent years, raised concerns about security during the festivities.

The police command has issued a stern warning to traditional leaders and their followers, urging compliance with agreed security protocols to prevent further disruptions.

“We will not tolerate any breaches of public order, especially during culturally significant events that attract large crowds,” the statement said.

No arrests have yet been confirmed as of press time.