The violence erupted after an attack on the Divisional Chief of Butre, Nana Egya Butia and his entourage, during a visit to Asemkow.

The chief reportedly sustained multiple cutlass wounds and is currently receiving treatment at the hospital. One of his aides was killed during the assault.

In apparent retaliation, some residents of Butre allegedly mobilised and stormed Asemkow, setting fire to homes, shops, and other properties. The attack forced many residents, mostly women and children to flee for their lives, leaving the once-bustling community in ruins.

A visit to the area by the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC), led by Minister Nelson and Nana Kobina Nketsia V, revealed extensive devastation, with Asemkow described as “a ghost village.”

Minister Nelson condemned the violence and directed the security agencies, particularly the police, to arrest all those involved.

“Those responsible must face the law. Justice must be served to restore confidence and peace,” he stated.

The Ahanta West Municipal Chief Executive (MCE), Ebenezer Aidoo, and Member of Parliament (MP) for the area, Mavis Kuukua Bissue, joined the delegation on the fact-finding visit.

Bissue appealed for calm, urging both communities to pursue peaceful resolutions to longstanding chieftaincy disputes.

“Ahanta West must move beyond these disputes and position itself for growth. I call on companies and individuals to support efforts to rebuild Asemkow,” she said.

Security personnel have since been deployed to the area to maintain peace and order as investigations continue.