Six houses belonging to herdsmen torched in Gomoa Amenfi over farm dispute

Tensions in Gomoa Amenfi escalated into violence as six houses belonging to herdsmen were allegedly set ablaze by local farmers following a dispute over crop destruction.

The attack, according to Citi News, was reportedly triggered after cattle from a herdsman-owned ranch strayed into a green pepper farm, leading to significant damage. In retaliation, some farm workers stormed the herdsmen’s settlement, setting fire to houses and destroying personal belongings.

One of the herdsmen who was physically assaulted during the attack, is currently receiving treatment at Otoo Memorial Hospital in Winneba.

Sheifu Ibrahim, one of the affected herdsmen, recounted the harrowing ordeal to Citi News, expressing fears for the safety of women and children in their community.

“The attack happened around 6 a.m. on Sunday, March 30. I was taking my animals out to graze when I heard noise from our settlement. When I arrived, I saw that six of our houses had been burned down by local farmers, allegedly in retaliation for a cow damaging a pepper farm,” he said.

Ibrahim lamented the extensive losses, stating that money, clothing, and other valuables were reduced to ashes. He also revealed that his elderly mother, who was asleep when the attack occurred, sustained injuries but was rescued by neighbours before the fire could harm her further.

“The attackers arrived carrying gallons of petrol. We pleaded with them, but they refused to listen. At the time, only women and children were in the house, completely vulnerable. If not for the intervention of others, my mother would not have survived,” he recounted.

Authorities have since arrested six suspects in connection with the arson. The Effutu Municipal Police Command is conducting investigations into the attack.

Meanwhile, the community is demanding justice and compensation for their losses.

“Today, March 31, is supposed to be a day of celebration, but it has turned into one of the worst days of our lives. Our women and children have lost everything. The farmers should have handled the situation in a more civilized manner,” Ibrahim stated.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.