Heavy fighting has erupted in Gbenyiri, a farming community in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region, leaving at least 10 people dead and 12 others injured.
The violence, believed to have been triggered by a protracted land dispute, has persisted despite the deployment of police and military personnel to the area.
On Sunday, August 24, five men were confirmed dead, with six others seriously injured during an exchange of gunfire.
Security forces have been working to restore calm, but eyewitnesses report that the clashes continue to escalate. According to reports, those injured are receiving medical treatment.
JoyNews correspondent Isaac Nongya, reporting on Joy Midday News, said the community has virtually been deserted, with terrified locals fleeing into nearby bushes for safety, while others have sought refuge at the local police station.
An eyewitness, Jimah Joseph, confirmed that gunshots could still be heard in parts of the community, underscoring the scale of the insecurity.
Meanwhile, the Savannah Regional Security Council is holding an emergency meeting to deliberate on the crisis and chart a path towards restoring peace.
Source: Albert Kuzor
