- Rival logging groups clashed in Sehwi Agyemadiem, leaving five dead
- The fight involved machetes, guns, and a burning truck
- Authorities are pressured to enforce stricter logging laws
A violent confrontation between two rival illegal timber logging groups in the forested area of Sehwi Agyemadiem, located in the Juaboso District of the Western North Region, has resulted in the deaths of five individuals and left several others seriously injured.
The clash, which took place in the early hours of Tuesday, is said to have been sparked by disputes over control of valuable logging areas.
Sources indicate that both groups were involved in unauthorized timber harvesting, a growing problem in the region.
Eyewitnesses report that the altercation quickly spiraled out of control, with the factions using machetes, pump-action guns, and other weapons commonly associated with their illegal activities.
During the violence, a Mitsubishi pickup truck (registration number GE 9075-17) was set on fire.
The victims, believed to be members of one of the warring groups, have yet to be officially identified. In response, police have been deployed to restore order, recover the bodies, and begin an investigation into the incident.
The injured individuals have been transported to Sefwi Asawinso hospitals for emergency treatment.
This deadly clash has once again highlighted the growing issue of illegal logging in the region. Both local residents and authorities are calling for stronger enforcement of forestry laws to prevent further damage to the area’s natural resources and to address the violence surrounding these activities.
Just weeks before this incident, the Chief of Sehwi Boinzan and Kontihene of the Sehwi Wiawso Traditional Area, Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, had urged the government to take firm action against illegal activities in the region’s forest reserves.
With tensions remaining high, authorities are facing mounting pressure to increase enforcement and prevent further bloodshed linked to illegal logging.
