Accra, Ghana — Tensions flared in the Ga South Municipality of the Greater Accra Region this week when a land dispute between residents of Danchira and Domeabra escalated into violence. The conflict, which began on Tuesday evening, resulted in six people sustaining injuries due to gunfire and machete attacks in successive confrontations.
The initial clash occurred on the peripheries of the Domeabra community where gunfire erupted, seriously wounding two individuals. Local health centers provided preliminary care, but due to the severity of injuries, the victims were later transferred to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and the University of Ghana Medical Centre for advanced treatment.
The situation intensified the following afternoon when a retaliatory attack left four more people with machete wounds, underlining the ongoing volatility in the area. Reports indicate that the dispute began over boundary demarcations on a contested piece of land where construction workers were attacked.
Francis Boateng, the Development Chief of Domeabra, detailed the harrowing moments when an opposing group from Danchira, allegedly led by an individual named Ashaley, initiated the attacks. According to Boateng, Ashaley and his followers returned with additional armed support and commenced shooting indiscriminately, heightening fears among local residents.
Chief Boateng expressed deep concern over the potential for further escalation and implored law enforcement agencies to intercede decisively. He emphasized the necessity for a comprehensive and impartial investigation to ascertain the root causes of the dispute and to bring those responsible to justice.
In response to the unrest, the Weija Divisional Police Command has ramped up patrols in the affected areas. Superintendent Eric Amponsah, leading the police efforts, stated that maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of all residents in both communities are their top priorities.
Local authorities and community leaders are currently seeking mediation solutions to address and resolve the underlying issues fueling this land-related conflict. Meanwhile, residents in the communities of Danchira and Domeabra are urged to cooperate with law enforcement and avoid taking actions that could exacerbate the situation further.
This land dispute serves as a reminder of the delicate nature of land ownership issues in rapidly developing regions, which if not adequately managed, have the potential to disrupt communal harmony and progress. The outcomes of the ongoing investigations and efforts at mediation will be crucial in restoring peace and ensuring such violent confrontations are avoided in the future.