At least 5 people has allegedly been killed and several others injured following violent clashes between Gonjas and Brifors over a disputed parcel of land at Gbiniyiri, a farming community in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District under the Bole Traditional Area.
The incident, which occurred on the night of last Saturday allegedly claimed the lives of 5 Gonjas.
Among the deceased is reported to be the son of the Chief of Kalba, Kalbawura Amalia.
According to community reports, the clashes stemmed from a land dispute after the Gbiniyiri- wura, who was recently enskinned as chief of the community, directed settlers to secure documentation for their lands and houses.
While many Brifors complied, others refused, particularly over the parcel of land at the center of the conflict.
The Gbiniyiri- wura allegedly declared that the disputed land had no rightful owner and subsequently sold it to a man identified as Nyariba from Sawla.
Tensions escalated when Nyariba attempted to develop the land and was confronted by some Brifor residents who claimed ownership.
Attempts by the Gbiniyiri- wura to mediate the matter reportedly turned violent when some Brifors attacked him and his guards, injuring several, including the son of the Kalbawura.
The situation worsened when the DCE for the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba, the the District Police Commander, and other stakeholders visited the Gbiniyiri palace to address the conflict.
Eyewitnesses say Brifors launched another attack during the meeting, leading to an exchange of gunfire that lasted for long.
Authorities have not yet officially confirmed the death toll but heavy security has been deployed to the Gbiniyiri community in the Sawla District of the Savannah region following the reported dispute over the piece of land.
Meanwhile one house alleged to belong to one man known for supporting the Lobis with charms was burned in Sawla yesterday.
The Chief of Kalba, Kalbawura Amalia has also yesterday taken the deadbody of his driver and son to Kalba for burial
