Deadly Ethnic Clashes Erupt Over Land Dispute in Koinadugu District

Deadly Ethnic Clashes Erupt Over Land Dispute in Koinadugu District

Simeon Gbani, Reporter Kabala DSN

Two individuals have lost their lives and several others remain critically injured following violent clashes between the Koranko and Limba ethnic groups in Lenkekoro, a town straddling the Wara-Wara Yagala and Diang chiefdoms in northern Sierra Leone’s Koinadugu District.

Local Unit Commander CSP Ibrahim Barrie reported that the fatalities resulted from machete wounds sustained during the altercation. Those injured are currently receiving medical attention.

The violence is rooted in a long-standing land dispute. Lenkekoro, situated on the boundary of the predominantly Limba Wara-Wara Yagala chiefdom and the Koranko-occupied Diang chiefdom, underscores the fragile coexistence of these ethnic groups. The two chiefdoms are divided by a single street, highlighting the tensions that have existed for years.

Authorities had previously warned both groups about the escalating tensions and urged them to resolve the matter peacefully. However, the situation escalated early this morning, leading to tragic outcomes.

Law enforcement is actively investigating the incident and has deployed additional personnel to restore order. Commander Barrie called for community leaders and residents to support ongoing peace initiatives and to prevent further violence.

For more information, please contact Daily Scope Newspaper at dailyscopemedia@gmail.com.

Share