A violent confrontation has erupted between the Ewe community of Nyekornakpoe and the Zabrama people, both fishing communities at Krachi East Municipality of the Oti Region, over fishing, leaving some people with cutlass wounds.

The dispute stems from the Zabarma youth's use of hooks for fishing on the Lake, which allegedly destroys the Ewe side's nets and endangers swimmers’ lives and safety.

Pastor Mathew Milenyakpor, a community resident, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the hook-and-line fishing method was particularly dangerous, as it could lead to entanglement and drowning.

He explained that they had long complained about these hazardous fishing practices of the Zabrama people, which have led to several fishermen suffering injuries.

To engage the Zabrama people, the situation escalated into a misunderstanding between both parties, leading to clashes with many injuries recorded.

Speaking to the Zabrama community spokesman, Mohammed Hassan, accused the Ewe community of consistently attacking their fishing operations on the Lake, with the latest incident being the burning of their tents and the destruction of cooking utensils.

He alleged that GHS18,000 was forcibly taken during a misunderstanding that triggered the clash.

He mentioned that the misunderstanding, which left cutlass wounds on the youths of Nyekornakpoe, erupted when sections of the youth demanded their immediate exit from the land.

The Assembly member of the Electoral Area, Mr Anthony Zodzenu, confirmed the incident.

‘I have been to the island to assess the situation myself; I have met leaders of both parties to restore calm.”

Mr Zodzenu said the six victims, who were injured, reported to the Police station, their statements were taken, and they were issued medical forms and are receiving treatment at the Tokuroano Health Centre.

According to him, the Zabrama people had obtained authorisation documents from the Biakoye District to carry out their fishing activities.

However, the issue arose because the Zabrama people were operating in Krachi East Municipality despite having a permit from Biakoye.

The Assembly member suggested that the Zabrama people should have operated within the Biakoye District, as that was where they had been authorised to fish.