Three people are feared dead following clashes between residents of Kendew and Lassia Tuolu in the Wa West District of the Upper West Region on Sunday, June 16.
The fatalities resulted from an exchange of gunfire between feuding factions in the two communities over ritual practices.
Several arrests have been made with heavy security deployed to the area, according to Joy News’ Upper West Regional Correspondent Rafiq Salam.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Midday News, Rafiq Salam confirmed that two people died on the spot, while a third succumbed to injuries later.
Investigations are ongoing in both Lassia Tuolu and Kendew. Preliminary information indicates that some of those arrested have been released on bail, while others remain in police custody to assist with the investigation. Among the deceased is a teacher from a school in Lassia Tuolu.
The police have not disclosed the exact number of people in custody, as the investigation continues.in
In a related development, Peter Lanchene Toobu, the Member of Parliament for Wa West, has issued a call for harmony between the Lassia-Tuolu and Kendeu communities.
In a statement released on June 16, Mr Toobu remarked, “This inter-community disagreement between the good people of Lassia Tuolu and Kendeu that erupted into violent attacks with recorded fatalities on the 15th of June 2024 is unfortunate, to say the least.”
He praised the police, military, and other security bodies for their prompt intervention.
“I am strongly appealing to the feuding parties to give peace a chance. No conflict can be resolved through the use of lethal or non-lethal force. Excessive anger has no place in conflict resolution. Let’s allow cool heads to reign,” he implored.
Mr Toobu offered his condolences to the bereaved families and hoped for a swift recovery for those injured and harmed.
READ THE FULL STATEMENT FROM THE MP BELOW
KENDEU AND LASSIA-TUOLU CONFLICT
Good evening, ladies and gentlemen of the media.
I have had friendly encounters with the media in the past three years since assuming office as the Member of Parliament representing the good people of Wa West. Unfortunately, today’s meeting is on a very sad note where lives have been lost in an inter-community conflict.
This inter-community disagreement between the good people of Lassia Tuolu and Kendeu that erupted into violent attacks with recorded fatalities on the 15th of June 2024 is unfortunate, to say the least .
I want to commend the Police, military, and other security agencies in the region for the timely response.
I am strongly appealing to the feuding parties to give peace a chance.
No conflict can be resolved through the use of lethal or non-lethal force. Excessive anger has no place in conflict resolution. Let’s allow cool heads to reign.
My deepest condolences to the families of the deceased persons. I wish the injured and wounded a speedy recovery. May this never be repeated anywhere in the district. We love the peaceful co-existence we have enjoyed over the years.
Brothers and sisters, if there is any battle to fight, we should unite to fight against poverty, deprivation, ignorance, and under-development.
Let me urge you in the media and the general public to be cautious of misinformations regarding this issue and verify facts from the appropriate quarters before publication to prevent escalations.
I also entreat all to support the return of peace between the feuding parties in Lassia-Tuolu and Kendeu.
God bless us all.
Thank you.
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