The Effutu Municipal Assembly has appealed for calm and restraint following violent disturbances in New Winneba and surrounding communities that have left three people dead and 17 others injured.
The disturbances, which occurred on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, reportedly began around 10:30 a.m. in connection with a land dispute before escalating into violent confrontations in New Winneba, Alwere Nkwanta, Ansaful and Bombirmito.
According to a statement issued by the Effutu Municipal Assembly, preliminary reports from authorities at the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital and the Municipal Hospital indicate that 20 people have been affected, comprising three deaths and 17 injuries. Four of those injured are reported to be in critical condition.
The Assembly has expressed its condolences to families who have lost loved ones and solidarity with those injured, displaced or traumatised by the disturbances.
It has also urged the public and the media to refrain from circulating unverified casualty figures, stressing that only figures released by the appropriate authorities should be relied upon.
The Assembly said the injured are receiving treatment at the Winneba Trauma and Specialist Hospital and the Municipal Hospital in Effutu.
In response to the situation, the Municipal Security Council (MUSEC) has increased security presence in the affected communities to protect lives and property and prevent further violence.
The Assembly said additional security measures could be introduced where necessary, while any decision on a possible curfew would be based on security assessments and formally communicated to the public.
It has strongly condemned acts of violence, reprisals, vigilantism, attacks on property and attempts by individuals to take the law into their own hands.
A comprehensive investigation into the disturbances is also underway. The Regional Police Command is expected to lead the investigation in coordination with an independent panel comprising representatives from the Office of the Regional Minister, the National Commission for Civic Education and an independent legal expert.
The Assembly said the terms of reference for the investigation would be published within 14 days.
It further assured residents that it remains committed to establishing the facts surrounding the disturbances and ensuring that anyone found responsible for unlawful acts is held accountable in accordance with the law.
As part of measures to support affected residents, a Family Assistance Centre has been established at the Municipal Assembly offices to assist affected families and coordinate support.
The Assembly has encouraged witnesses and persons with relevant information to report to the Police, the Family Assistance Centre or the MUSEC Secretariat. It said steps would be taken to protect the identities of persons who provide information.
On the underlying land dispute, the Assembly stressed that land claims must be addressed through the courts and other legally mandated land institutions.
It said no land claim, regardless of how strongly it is held, could justify violence or intimidation, adding that it would support lawful efforts to resolve the dispute while encouraging mediation and dialogue among the parties.
The Assembly has also called on traditional authorities, religious leaders, community leaders, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to work together to reduce tensions and promote reconciliation.
It urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, refrain from reprisals and vigilantism, avoid spreading rumours or unverified information, and stay away from areas of confrontation.
The Assembly also appealed to residents to follow official announcements from MUSEC and other authorised institutions as investigations and relief efforts continue.
A further press briefing is expected to be held to provide verified updates on the situation, the ongoing investigation and measures being taken to support affected residents.
The Effutu Municipal Assembly has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives, supporting affected families, restoring peace, establishing the facts and ensuring accountability, while appealing to all residents to choose restraint, dialogue and peace.
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