TWO persons are battling for their lives at the New Abirem Government Hospital after sustaining serious machete wounds during a violent clash between youth from Akyem Mamanso and Teichu in the Birim North District of the Eastern Region.
The incident occurred last Tuesday at the Mamanso Roundabout and was reportedly triggered by a misunderstanding over access to water being used for small-scale mining activities in the area.
According to an eyewitness, the two victims, believed to be residents of Teichu, were attacked by some youth from Mamanso following a heated argument over access to a water source used for mining operations.
“The victims were attacked right at the Mamanso Roundabout by some Mamanso youth. It was very bloody,” the eyewitness said.
The victims reportedly sustained deep machete wounds and were quickly rushed to the New Abirem Government Hospital for emergency treatment.
Hospital sources said their condition was serious but stable.
The incident has heightened tension between the two neighbouring communities, with residents expressing fears of a possible reprisal attack.
The police at New Abirem have been informed and have commenced investigations into the incident.
The police have also pledged to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure that they face the full rigours of the law.
Meanwhile, residents and opinion leaders in the area are appealing for calm and urging the District Security Council (DISEC) and traditional authorities to intervene swiftly to prevent the situation from escalating into further violence.
FROM David Afum, Teichu