The Ghana Police Service has issued a strong warning to final-year Senior High School (SHS) students across the country, urging them to remain disciplined and law-abiding as they complete the 2026 West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).
The caution comes ahead of the final day of examinations on Friday, June 19, and follows recent incidents of student unrest in parts of the Upper East Region that resulted in several arrests.
According to the Police, students must celebrate responsibly and avoid any conduct that could result in criminal charges or jeopardise their future opportunities.
Warning Follows Recent Arrests
The Police warning comes after six students were arrested in separate incidents involving alleged misconduct and destruction of property.
At Zebilla Senior High Technical School, two students were arrested in connection with the alleged burning of a teacher’s apartment.
Meanwhile, four students from Bawku Senior High School were picked up for alleged rioting, assaulting school authorities and damaging school and private property.
The incidents have heightened concerns over student behaviour during end-of-examination celebrations.
Students Urged to Obey the Law
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Ghana Police Service urged students to exercise restraint and demonstrate maturity as they conclude their examinations.
The Service warned that acts such as violence, vandalism, arson, assault and other unlawful behaviour are criminal offences that carry serious legal consequences.
Police officials stressed that students should not allow moments of celebration to undermine years of hard work and academic effort.
No Tolerance for Criminal Behaviour
The Service made it clear that any student found engaging in criminal conduct would face the full rigours of the law.
According to the statement, law enforcement agencies remain committed to maintaining peace and public order in schools and surrounding communities.
The Police emphasized that unlawful actions would not be excused simply because they occur during post-examination celebrations.
Parents and Schools Asked to Support
The Police also called on parents, guardians, teachers and school authorities to work together in promoting discipline and responsible behaviour among students.
They encouraged stakeholders to guide students towards peaceful celebrations and help prevent incidents that could result in arrests or damage to property.
Focus on the Future
With thousands of students expected to complete WASSCE this week, the Police urged candidates to focus on their future aspirations and avoid actions that could negatively affect their educational and career prospects.
The Service reiterated that discipline, responsibility and respect for the law remain essential as students prepare to move on to the next stage of their lives.
Police say maintaining peace and order during the post-examination period will help ensure a safe and successful end to the academic year for students nationwide.
