Keri, Oti Region – Tensions have escalated in the farming community of Keri following a shooting incident on Sunday evening that left two people dead. The violence is believed to be the latest chapter in a long-standing and bitter conflict over the ownership of the nearby Nkwanta township.
The Ghana News Agency (GNA) has identified the victims as Asunke Joseph and Anasechor Bob. According to local sources, Mr. Joseph had previously left Keri to reside in Dambai within the Krachi East Municipality due to the volatile security situation. He had reportedly only returned to the community to harvest his yam farm when the attack occurred.
The sound of gunfire late Sunday sent a wave of panic through the small community. Fearful for their safety, many residents have since abandoned their homes, fleeing to what they hope are safer locations.
Madam Juliana Awasan, the Assemblywoman for the Keri North Electoral Area, confirmed the tragic event to the GNA but refrained from giving further details about the incident.
The dispute over the ownership of the Nkwanta township is a complex and protracted one involving three different ethnic groups. Over the years, it has repeatedly erupted into violent clashes, resulting in numerous deaths and the widespread destruction of property.
A resident of Keri who spoke on condition of anonymity voiced frustration and a sense of betrayal. The source noted that members from the feuding factions had recently participated in a Peace Walk, an initiative aimed at healing rifts and promoting harmony. “Taking part in the Peace Walk was just a disguise,” the resident alleged. “People are pursuing their own hidden plans.” The resident questioned the prospects for genuine, lasting peace in the municipality and made an urgent appeal to the national government to strengthen its efforts to restore order.
In the wake of the shooting, community members are calling for a significantly increased security presence in Keri and its surrounding areas to deter any further violence.
Security officials have confirmed the incident. Sources indicate that an investigation has been launched to identify and apprehend those responsible. The Municipal Security Council is scheduled to convene an emergency meeting to review the situation and develop strategies to prevent any retaliatory attacks.
The Oti Regional Police Command has issued a plea for calm, urging residents to cooperate with authorities by providing any credible information that could aid the investigation. Security personnel on the ground describe the atmosphere in Keri as tense, though currently under control.
(Source: Ghana News Agency)
