The Bono Regional Police Command has confirmed that calm has been restored in the border town of Sampa.

This follows a violent clash between two rival factions, Sammordua and Samgba Gyafla, which broke out at the town’s main market on Sunday, 5th October.

The confrontation, which involved the exchange of gunfire, also saw several market stores set ablaze, creating panic among residents and traders in the area.

According to a statement from the Police Command, officers received a distress call on Sunday reporting the outbreak of violence.

A team was immediately deployed to the scene, accompanying a Ghana National Fire Service tender and an ambulance that was transporting a pregnant woman to the hospital.

• Read also: Police officer killed in rival clash as masked gunmen storm Sampa

However, the deployed Police officers found themselves caught in the crossfire between the armed factions.

Several officers sustained gunshot injuries during the exchange, and a Police service vehicle with registration number GP 686 veered off the road and landed in a ditch amid the chaos.

The injured officers were quickly transported to the Sampa Government Hospital. Seven have since been treated and discharged, while one officer, who sustained a head injury, has been referred to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi for further medical care.

In response to the unrest, the Police have intensified patrols in Sampa and the surrounding areas to maintain order and prevent further disturbances.

The Bono Regional Police Command assured the public that investigations are ongoing and efforts are being made to apprehend all individuals involved in the violence.

Residents are being urged to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement officers as the situation continues to be monitored closely.

Meanwhile, a police officer was confirmed dead following the incident.