A violent clash between alleged landguards and residents of Kraboa Coaltar in the Ayensuano District of the Eastern Region has left one person dead and several others injured.
The incident, which unfolded on Thursday, January 16, 2025, stems from longstanding tensions over land ownership in the area.
Residents claim the landguards have been terrorising them for years, with efforts to resolve the issue yielding no results.
Ezekiel Perry, a resident, alleged that Barima Okekrebesi Asiedu II, the chief of Coaltar, brought the landguards into the community.
“They arrived in six to seven cars and on motorcycles, armed with guns and cutlasses. The police intervened but struggled for over three hours to restore calm,” Perry recounted.
A resident was caught in the crossfire while returning from a nearby toilet.
“There was indiscriminate gunfire, which led to his death and left several others injured,” Perry added.
The injured were rushed to the Coaltar Health Centre and Koforidua for treatment while the victim’s body was sent to the mortuary for autopsy.
Authorities have yet to make any arrests in connection with the clash.
Residents continue to demand justice and protection, urging law enforcement to act swiftly to bring the perpetrators to book and restore peace to the area.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Coaltar, Barima Okrekrebesi Asiedu II, has called for a thorough investigation into the shooting incident.
He urged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the government to take immediate action in addressing the matter to ensure justice.
Speaking at a press conference, Barima Asiedu II expressed deep concern over the ongoing chieftaincy conflicts in the region, which have contributed to the violence.
He stressed that swift action was necessary to prevent further unrest and bring the responsible parties to justice.
The chief also highlighted the region’s long-standing land disputes, which he believed significantly hindered development.
He called on the authorities to prioritise peace and stability in the area, stressing that a peaceful environment is essential for community progress and attracting investment.