Students taking the WASSCE examination in Ghana.

Police Warn WASSCE Candidates Against Violence After Six Student Arrests in Upper East

Police have urged final-year students across Ghana to celebrate responsibly after the completion of the 2026 WASSCE, citing recent arrests linked to alleged arson, rioting and destruction of property in the Upper East Region.

ACCRA, Ghana — The Ghana Police Service has warned final-year students sitting the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) against engaging in violence, vandalism or other unlawful conduct after completing their final papers, following the arrest of six students in separate incidents in the Upper East Region.

The warning comes as thousands of candidates across Ghana prepare to conclude the 2026 examination cycle, a period traditionally marked by celebrations among students finishing secondary school.

Police said recent incidents involving students in the Upper East Region highlighted the risks associated with post-examination misconduct and underscored the need for discipline and lawful behaviour.

According to a statement issued by the Ghana Police Service, two students from Zebilla Senior High Technical School were arrested in connection with the alleged arson of a teacher’s apartment. Four other students from Bawku Senior High School were arrested over allegations of rioting, assaulting school staff and damaging school and private property.

The Service stressed that students found engaging in criminal activities would face arrest and prosecution in accordance with Ghanaian law.

“The Police will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any student found engaging in such conduct,” the statement said.

Officials warned that acts including violence, vandalism, assault and arson could have lasting consequences for students’ futures, potentially undermining years of academic effort and limiting educational and career opportunities.

Examination Season and Student Behaviour

The conclusion of WASSCE examinations often marks a major milestone for students, many of whom celebrate the end of years of secondary education.

However, education authorities and law enforcement agencies have periodically expressed concern about incidents of disorder, property damage and violence linked to end-of-examination celebrations.

The police said candidates should celebrate peacefully and remain mindful that criminal acts committed during celebrations remain subject to prosecution.

The Service also appealed to parents, guardians, teachers and school administrators to work together to promote discipline and ensure that students complete the academic year safely.

Wider Concerns About School Violence

The arrests come amid broader national discussions about student discipline and safety in Ghana’s second-cycle institutions.

Recent incidents reported in schools across different parts of the country have prompted calls for stronger behavioural support systems, conflict-resolution programmes and closer cooperation between schools, families and local communities.

Education specialists have previously argued that maintaining safe learning environments requires both disciplinary measures and investment in student welfare and counselling services.

Explainer

What We Know

Confirmed Information

Six students have been arrested in separate incidents in the Upper East Region.
Two students were arrested in connection with the alleged arson of a teacher’s apartment.
Four others were arrested over allegations of rioting, assault and property destruction.
Police have warned WASSCE candidates nationwide against post-examination violence.
Authorities say offenders will be arrested and prosecuted.

What Remains Unclear

Whether additional arrests will be made.
The full extent of property damage in the reported incidents.
Whether disciplinary action will also be taken by the schools involved.
The outcome of ongoing police investigations.

Why This Matters

For many students, completing WASSCE represents the beginning of a new chapter in life.

Police say the actions of a small number of students should not overshadow the achievements of thousands of candidates who have completed the examination process responsibly.

As celebrations begin across the country, authorities are urging students to mark the occasion peacefully and avoid conduct that could place themselves or others at risk.