Heavy fighting has erupted in Gbenyiri, a farming community in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region, leaving at least ten people dead and twelve others injured.

The violence, believed to have been triggered by a protracted land dispute, has persisted despite the deployment of police and military personnel to the area.

On Sunday, August 24, five people, all men, were confirmed dead, with six others seriously injured during an exchange of gunfire.

Security forces have been working to restore calm, but eyewitnesses report that the clashes continue to escalate.

According to reports, twelve people have sustained injuries and are receiving medical treatment.

JoyNews correspondent, Isaac Nongya, reported on Joy Midday news that the community has virtually been deserted following the weekend clash, with terrified locals fleeing into nearby bushes for safety, while others have sought refuge at the local police station.

An eyewitness, Jimah Joseph, told reporters that gunshots could still be heard in parts of the community, underscoring the scale of the insecurity.

Listen to Jimah Joseph

Meanwhile, the Savannah Regional Security Council is holding an emergency meeting to deliberate on the crisis and chart a path towards restoring peace.