Two Shot, Four Houses Destroyed Over Land Dispute In Grand Kru

By Emmanuel Koffa

At least two persons were reportedly shot and four houses destroyed during a land conflict that happened in Grand Kru County on February 5, 2025. The incident took between Wedabo Geneken and Karwlaken communities in Trehn Statutory District, which resulted in gunshots and burning of houses.

Eyewitnesses attributed the conflict to a longstanding territorial disagreement between the two communities, which, onlookers say intensified on Wednesday night, February 5, 2025. The situation, according to eyewitness, prompted a rapid response from local law enforcement and Joint Security.

Rural Reporters News Network (RRNN) Correspondent quotes eyewitnesses as saying that the violence erupted after a group of individuals from the two communities (Karwlaken Trehn Statutory District and Geneken of Wedabo) confronted each other over disputed land boundaries.

The argument, eyewitnesses described as chaotic, quickly escalated into gunfire, leading to injuries and destruction of properties.

Authorities confirmed that two residents of Karwlaken identified as Patrick Williams and Benjamin Toye were shot during the altercation.

One of the gunshot victims, Benjamin Toye was immediately rushed to the JJ Dossen Hospital in Harper, Maryland County, while the other victim, Patrick Williams received first-aid treatment on-site.

RRNN Correspondent said at least four houses were reportedly set on fire, leaving residents of Dutorken village and the Old Karwlaken homeless as a result of the violence.

The Joint Security forces in Grand Kru County have been deployed to the area, and have arrested several individuals suspected of inciting the violence. Law enforcement officials stated that they are working diligently to restore order and ensure the safety of all residents in affected areas.

The joint security through ACP Commander Clament Barllat of the Grand Kru County Police Detachment have called for calm between the disputed communities, urging leaders from both sides to seek peaceful dialogue to resolve the ongoing land issues.

Officer Barllat emphasized the importance of community unity and the need to avoid further escalation of violence, noting that such disputes can lead to a long-lasting distrust and animosity among neighbors.

As the situation remains tense, authorities encourage residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police. The Grand Kru County police and Joint Security forces are set to heighten their presence in the area to ensure security and deter any potential flare-ups of violence.