Armed Men In Wa East Attack Cattle, Killing 26 Animals , Owner Calls for Justice

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A violent incident in the Wa East District has left local cattle farmers devastated after armed assailants attacked herds in Duccie Jaagaji Kuraa, resulting in the loss of 26 cattle valued at approximately GHC 300,000. The attack, which occurred late on Wednesday, January 28, has raised concerns over security and livestock protection in the region.

Mr. Fuseini Ahmed, a businessman based based in Bulenga, recounted to Info Radio that the assault took place around midnight. According to him, the cattle initially kept at Tissa, were moved to Duccie Jaagaji Kuraa after an agreement with local landlords who permitted their stay. Mr. Ahmed left the animals in the care of herdsmen and returned to Bulenga in the evening. He was alerted around midnight that the cattle were under attack.

“When I received the call, I rushed to the scene, but the herdsmen had already fled out of fear for their lives,” Mr. Ahmed said. Upon arriving, he discovered that two of his cattle had been killed instantly, five had broken legs from gunshots, and 18 others were injured with varying degrees of trauma. He estimated the total value of the lost livestock at around GHC 300,000.

The attack was not targeted at all cattle in the area, Mr. Ahmed noted. “The cattle belonging to Alhaji Oldman and Alhaji Korika Jaaje were spared,” he explained. “The gunmen only shot at the cattle I brought into the community, and the animals arrived just that same afternoon. There was no provocation; they did not damage farms or property.”

According to Mr. Ahmed, the cattle’s caretaker identified one of the assailants as a man known locally as Lion, who is reportedly influential in the community. The landlord and victims revealed that Lion and some young men had issued warnings earlier in the year, stating they would not permit cattle in the area.

The incident has been officially reported to the Wa East District Police Command, which has already made one arrest in connection with the case. Authorities are continuing investigations to identify all those involved.

In addition to Mr. Ahmed, Alhaji Korika Jaaje also voiced concern, revealing that three of his cattle were killed and seven others injured during the attack. Like Mr. Ahmed, he had obtained permission from the community landlords before bringing his animals into the area. Both cattle owners are calling on the authorities to ensure that justice is served.

This violent attack underscores ongoing tensions surrounding livestock grazing and land use in the Wa East District, with local farmers demanding increased security measures to prevent future occurrences and safeguard their livelihoods.