Nkwanta, Ghana – Eight individuals have been confirmed dead, and several others, including a police officer, injured following reported shootings at the Nkwanta Central Market in the Nkwanta South Municipality. The Oti Regional Minister, Mr. Joshua Makubu, provided this update in a media interview on Tuesday evening. To reestablish security in the area, the Minister of the Interior has imposed a curfew on Nkwanta Town, effective Tuesday, November 21, from 1700 hours to 0600 hours.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Minister of the Interior, the decision was made following advice from the Oti Regional Security Council. The government appealed for calm and urged the use of established conflict resolution mechanisms. A ban has been enforced on carrying arms, ammunition, or offensive weapons in the township, and violators will face arrest and prosecution.
The cause of the clash remains unclear, but victims are currently receiving medical attention at St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospital and the Municipal Hospital. Dr. Ebenezer Forson, a Medical Officer at the Catholic Hospital, reported that five individuals with gunshot wounds were admitted, and two males were brought in deceased. Reports indicate that some houses were raided and set ablaze, with occupants shot, suggesting possible retaliation due to long-standing tribal conflicts over land ownership.
A journalist, whose name was withheld, stated that many residents have fled their homes or remain indoors due to fear. Mr. Bright Lenwah, the Municipal Chief Executive and Head of the Security Council, called for peace and suggested that such issues be resolved through legal or alternative dispute mechanisms. Security has been intensified in the Municipality with joint military-police patrols and increased visibility of security forces.