A clash between hunters and farmers in Kumtumbiliyili, a community in the Zabzugu District of the Northern Region, has claimed two lives and left several others injured.
According to eyewitnesses, the hunters had invaded the area for a hunting expedition. While hunting, they allegedly set fire to the land, which destroyed a farmer’s yam barn, triggering the disturbance.
Residents said that when the farm produce was burned, the community confronted the hunters near the farm. However, more hunters, who were still in the bush, joined the clash, escalating tensions.
Previously, hunting in the area had been banned by National Security, particularly in conflict-prone communities such as Kandin, Sheini, and Nahuyili. However, the hunters resumed their activities a month ago, leading to the latest clash.
Group hunting is a common practice in the region, with hunters traveling in trucks to different locations to hunt in forest reserves and farmlands. There have been several incidents of bushfires linked to these hunting expeditions, prompting farmers and stakeholders to call for a total ban. However, such a measure has yet to be enforced across the entire region.
Following the clash, many residents have fled into the bushes, fearing for their lives.
Those injured are currently receiving treatment at the Tatale Hospital. Additionally, one of the individuals initially believed to be dead has regained consciousness and is now receiving medical care.
A resident noted that ethnic tensions are being read into the incident, which, if not handled carefully, could escalate into a larger conflict.
Meanwhile, the Assembly Member for the area, Punala Daniel, is appealing for security reinforcements to prevent the situation from spiraling into a full-blown conflict.
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