Afenyo-Markin commends police response after deadly New Winneba attack

Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin

Minority Leader Osahen Alexander Afenyo-Markin has praised the Ghana Police Service for its efforts to contain the situation following the deadly violence at New Winneba.

The clashes reportedly erupted after a group of about 300 people from Gomoa Oguakrom, Gomoa Yenkuadze and Gomoa Pomadze allegedly stormed New Winneba armed with guns, stones, cutlasses and sticks.

The incident left three people dead and 17 others injured, including a police officer. Several shops, stores and houses were reportedly vandalised, while the Effutu North District Police Headquarters was also damaged.

Mr Afenyo-Markin commended the Police for what he described as their “prompt response, professional conduct and sustained efforts” to restore calm and safeguard lives and property.

He also extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished those injured a speedy recovery.

The Minority Leader cautioned that allowing tensions to persist could lead to further loss of lives and destruction of property.

He said disagreements over the historical and legal ownership of the New Winneba lands should be resolved through lawful and peaceful means rather than violence.

“Regardless of the historical record and judicial determinations that have consistently affirmed the rightful claim of the Effutu people to the New Winneba lands, the path forward must rest on dialogue, the rule of law and mutual respect,” he said.

According to Mr Afenyo-Markin, any outstanding disputes over the land should be pursued through the Lands Commission, the courts and traditional authorities.

He called on the communities involved to respect one another and pursue dialogue aimed at finding a lasting solution to the dispute.

“As a son of both communities, I have a solemn duty to speak with care and measured wisdom,” he said.

He said the deaths and injuries recorded in the conflict should reinforce the need for all parties to prevent a recurrence of violence and seek peaceful ways of addressing their differences.