A violent clash between two rival groups of illegal timber loggers in the Sefwi Agyemadiem forest area of the Juaboso District, Western North Region, has resulted in the death of five individuals. The incident occurred on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, and several others were left severely injured.
The confrontation was the result of escalating tensions between the groups over control of prime logging areas. Both groups were reportedly engaged in unauthorized timber harvesting, a common illegal activity in the region. The deadly altercation involved the use of machetes, pump-action guns, and other tools associated with their illicit trade. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, which included the setting of a Mitsubishi pickup (GE 9075-17) ablaze during the confrontation.
The deceased individuals are believed to be from one of the factions, although their identities have not yet been confirmed by authorities. Law enforcement has been deployed to the scene to retrieve the bodies and restore order, while the injured were transported to Sefwi Asawinso Hospital for treatment.
This incident has raised significant concerns about the growing threat posed by illegal logging activities in the region. Local authorities and residents have called for stricter enforcement of forestry laws to prevent further exploitation of the forests. Recently, the Chief of Sefwi Boinzan and Kontihene of the Sefwi Wiawso Traditional Area, Nana Ofori Ahenkan II, urged the government to address the increasing lawlessness in the region’s forest reserves.
