A violent clash between hunters and farmers in Kumtumbiliyili, a community in the Zabzugu district of the Northern Region, has left two people dead and several others injured.
According to eyewitnesses, the conflict began when a group of hunters entered the area for a hunting expedition. While in the bush, they reportedly set fire to the land, which accidentally burned down a farmer’s yam barn. This angered the farmers, leading to a confrontation with the hunters who were nearby. The situation escalated when more hunters, still in the bush, joined the fight.
Hunting in the area had previously been banned by National Security due to tensions in communities like Kandin, Sheini, and Nahuyili. However, hunters recently resumed their activities, leading to this violent altercation.
Bushfires caused by hunting expeditions have been a growing concern for farmers and other stakeholders, prompting calls for stricter regulations. However, a region-wide ban is yet to be enforced.
In the aftermath of the clash, many residents fled into the bush for safety, fearing further violence. The injured are currently receiving medical treatment at the Tatale Hospital, and one individual who was initially presumed dead has regained consciousness.
There are growing concerns that the incident could spark ethnic tensions, potentially escalating into a larger conflict. The Assembly Member for the area, Punala Daniel, has called for increased security presence to prevent further violence.
