Three killed, 15 injured in violent land dispute at New Winneba

Three people have reportedly died and at least 15 others, including a police officer, sustained injuries following a violent clash involving about 300 people at New Winneba in the Effutu North District of the Central Region.

The group, some of whom were reportedly armed with guns, stones, cutlasses and sticks, allegedly stormed parts of the New Winneba township and attacked residents.

Several properties, including shops and residential buildings belonging to natives of the area, were also reportedly damaged during the violence.

The incident, which is believed to be linked to a land dispute, occurred at about 10:40 a.m. on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.

The development prompted the deployment of security personnel to the township to restore calm, protect residents and prevent further escalation.

The injured victims were subsequently transported to the Trauma and Specialist Hospital in Winneba for medical attention.

Personnel from the Central Regional Police Command, the Winneba Divisional Police Headquarters and patrol teams from the Agona Swedru District were deployed to the affected areas.

The Inspector-General of Police has also directed additional personnel from the National Police Headquarters to reinforce the security operation.

The reinforcement includes two armoured vehicles to support the personnel already deployed on the ground.

As of 2:45 p.m., the police had brought the situation under control, although security personnel remained stationed in the area to maintain law and order.

The identities of the three deceased persons and the specific circumstances that triggered the clash were not immediately known.

The police have since commenced investigations to establish the events leading to the violence, identify those responsible and assess the extent of damage to property.

Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with the security agencies as efforts continue to maintain peace and protect lives and property in the township.