Residents of Gomoa Amenfi have burnt down six (6) houses belonging to Fulani herdsmen in the community.
The incident occurred following complaints from residents that cows belonging to the herdsmen have destroyed their crops.
According to reports, tensions escalated, resulting in the confrontation after cattle from a Fulani-owned ranch reportedly destroyed a green pepper farm in the area. In retaliation, some workers from the farm stormed the Fulani settlement, setting six houses on fire and destroying several personal belongings.
One of the Fulani herdsmen, who was physically assaulted during the attack, is currently receiving treatment at Otoo Memorial Hospital in Winneba.
Speaking to Citi News, Sheifu Ibrahim, one of the affected individuals, expressed deep concern over the situation, noting that women and children in the Fulani community are now living in fear and uncertainty.
“The attack happened around 6 am yesterday [Sunday, March 30]. I was walking my animals to graze, and all I heard was noise from the Fulani community. I got there only to realize that six houses belonging to us had been set ablaze by local farmers in the area because one of our cattle had gone to destroy a pepper farm belonging to one of the farmers.
“I lost several properties to the fire including money and some clothing,” Sheifu Ibrahim told Citi News.
According to Sheifu Ibrahim his mother, who was asleep when the attack occurred sustained minor injuries on her back, adding that the timely intervention of some neighbors prevented her mother from being burnt in the inferno.
“They came to attack us at 6 am in the morning. The locals were six in number and were carrying gallons of petrol with them when they came. We pleaded with them, but they never heeded our plea. At the time they came there were only women and children in the house who were all vulnerable.
“My sick mother survived only because there were people in the house who rescued her; other than that, she would have been dead by now,” Sheifu Ibrahim said.
The six individuals who attacked and burnt down the house are currently in the grips of the Effutu Municipal Police command, pending investigation.
