Tensions have reached a boiling point in Okorase, a town near Adeiso in the Upper West Akim district, following a violent clash that left the Zongo chief and two other residents with gunshot wounds.
The incident, which reportedly stemmed from a long-running land dispute, has raised serious concerns over the alleged involvement of armed men believed to be either land guards or national security personnel.
The conflict unfolded at approximately 3 p.m. on Friday, shortly after the Muslim community had concluded its prayers, Adom News Eastern Regional Correspondent Kwasi Azor reported.
According to the Amankrado of Okurase, Nana Kwadwo Arhin III, a group of armed men arrived in the town and began searching for the Zongo Chief, Sariki Aminu.
The men claimed they needed the chief to report to the police headquarters in Accra.
When Chief Sariki Aminu requested to see their identification, the armed individuals allegedly failed to produce any credentials. In the ensuing confrontation, the chief was shot in the shoulder.
Two other individuals who rushed to the scene to assist him were also shot.
The victims were immediately taken for medical attention, with the Zongo Chief’s injury being the most severe.
The local police in Adeiso were promptly notified of the incident.
However, hours later, the situation reportedly worsened.
According to residents and local leaders, a separate group of armed men, again suspected to be national security personnel, stormed the town and arrested approximately 15 people without explanation.
This has heightened the sense of fear in the community.
Nana Kwadwo Arhin III made an impassioned plea for a swift and decisive response from the highest levels of government.
“The chiefs and assembly members are urging the Inspector General of Police (IGP) and the President to intervene urgently,” he stated in an interview.
The violence has created a state of fear and uncertainty among the residents. Many have reportedly abandoned their homes, worried about their safety and what may happen next.
The incident underscores a persistent and dangerous problem in Ghana, where land disputes often escalate into violent confrontations, sometimes involving private militias or individuals masquerading as state security agents.
The community is now calling for a full-scale, independent investigation to identify and prosecute the perpetrators and to bring a lasting resolution to the underlying land dispute.