A deepening land dispute in Ghana’s Savannah Region has sparked fresh violence, with the Chief’s Palace in Gbiniyiri set on fire following a series of deadly clashes.
The latest incident occurred on Tuesday, 26 August, in the farming community located in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District. It comes in the wake of earlier violence that has already claimed six lives and left 18 people injured.
Authorities say the unrest began on Sunday, 24 August, after violence broke out between residents and individuals allegedly connected to a controversial land deal involving the local chief and a private developer.
Five people were killed in Sunday’s clashes, and another person died the following morning in a separate shooting. Many of the injured are being treated for gunshot and machete wounds, with several said to be in critical condition.
The burning of the Chief’s Palace is being seen as a major escalation in the dispute, which has also led to the destruction of homes and other properties in the area.
Hundreds of residents, including women and children, have fled Gbiniyiri and surrounding communities amid fears of further violence. Local officials have expressed concern that the conflict could spread if not swiftly brought under control.
A joint police and military task force has been deployed to the area, but security agencies say the scattered layout of the communities is posing logistical challenges.
The District Security Council (DISEC), in coordination with regional authorities, has stepped up patrols and is engaging with traditional leaders in an effort to calm tensions.
Officials are urging all parties to remain calm and pursue peaceful dialogue to resolve the dispute.
