Omanghana
The Ghana Police Service has arrested eight individuals in connection with the recent outbreak of violence in the Nkwanta South Municipality of the Oti Region, where armed attacks left three people dead and nine others injured.
The arrests follow an intensified security operation launched after unidentified gunmen attacked the community of Odomi on June 18, 2026, sparking panic among residents and prompting a swift response from security agencies.
A joint task force comprising personnel from the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces has since been deployed to restore order and enforce emergency security measures across the municipality.
Deadly Attack Claims Three Lives
According to authorities, the assailants opened fire during the attack on Odomi, killing three people, including two farmers who were pronounced dead on arrival at Nkwanta St. Joseph Catholic Hospital.
Nine other victims sustained gunshot wounds and received medical attention following the incident, highlighting the severity of the violence that disrupted daily life in the area.
Security agencies continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and are working to identify any additional individuals involved.
Curfew Imposed Across Affected Communities
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the Ministry of the Interior, acting on the advice of the National Security Council, imposed a daily curfew from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.
The restrictions apply to 12 communities within the municipality, including Nkwanta, Odomi, Bonakye, Keri, and Nyankoma, with authorities urging residents to comply fully with the measures to support ongoing security operations.
Officials say the curfew is intended to prevent further violence and provide security personnel with the necessary conditions to maintain public order.
Ban on Weapons Enforced
As part of the emergency measures, authorities have imposed a complete prohibition on the possession or carrying of firearms, ammunition, and other offensive weapons within the municipality.
Security personnel have been directed to arrest and prosecute anyone found violating the ban as part of efforts to deter further unrest and safeguard residents.
Calm Gradually Returns
Nkwanta South Municipal Chief Executive Joseph Awal Antwi has indicated that the deployment of additional security forces has significantly improved the situation on the ground.
According to local authorities, businesses have resumed operations and normal activities are gradually returning, although security patrols remain heightened and surveillance continues throughout the municipality.
Residents have been encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report suspicious activities to help preserve the fragile peace.
Long-Standing Chieftaincy and Land Disputes
The latest violence is believed to be linked to a protracted conflict rooted in longstanding land ownership and chieftaincy disagreements involving the Adele, Akyode, and Challa ethnic groups.
The tensions have periodically erupted into clashes over the years, despite efforts by traditional leaders and government authorities to mediate the disputes.
Prior to the recent outbreak, the Oti Regional House of Chiefs had established a seven-member committee to facilitate dialogue and seek a lasting resolution to the conflict. However, the latest armed confrontations occurred before those mediation efforts could yield results.
Calls for Swift Justice
In the aftermath of the arrests, local leaders have appealed to the Judicial Service to expedite the prosecution of the eight suspects.
They argue that timely legal action would serve as a deterrent against future violence and reinforce ongoing efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in Nkwanta South.
Meanwhile, security agencies say investigations remain ongoing and have pledged to continue working with community leaders and stakeholders to prevent further disturbances in the area.
Source: Omanghana
