A long-standing chieftaincy conflict between the sister communities of Asemko and Butre in the Ahanta West Municipality of the Western Region has turned deadly, leaving one person beheaded and the entire community of Asemko in ruins.

The violent confrontation, which erupted last week, was reportedly triggered when the shared traditional leader, Nana Agyeibu Tiah, visited Asemko.

His visit was interrupted by an attack allegedly launched by a rival chieftaincy faction from Butre, escalating into full-blown violence.

Several houses were torched, properties destroyed, and families displaced, forcing many residents to flee into nearby bushes and communities for safety.

School buildings remain closed, and what was once a vibrant settlement has now been reduced to a ghost town, with smouldering debris marking the aftermath of the chaos.

In response, the Western Regional Security Council (REGSEC), led by Regional Minister Joseph Nelson and the President of the Western Regional House of Chiefs, Nana Kobina Nketsia V, visited the affected community to assess the scale of destruction and coordinate relief efforts.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, the Regional Minister condemned the act of violence and directed security agencies, particularly the police, to apprehend all those responsible for the attacks.

He assured residents that the government would take swift measures to restore peace and public confidence.

The Agona Nkwanta District FPU Commander, ASP Joe Osae, briefed REGSEC members on the security situation, confirming that additional officers have been deployed to maintain law and order in the area.

The Municipal Chief Executive for Ahanta West, Mr. Ebenezer Aidoo, revealed that the Assembly had already petitioned REGSEC to intervene before the tragic incident occurred.

He added that officials are currently compiling a list of displaced victims, including affected schoolchildren, to coordinate humanitarian support.

Meanwhile, the Member of Parliament for Ahanta West, Mavis Kuukua Bissue, has appealed to all factions to embrace peace and dialogue.

She emphasised that resolving the chieftaincy dispute is crucial to restoring stability and attracting investment and development to the area.

Miss Bissue also called on corporate bodies, NGOs, and benevolent individuals to support efforts to rebuild the community and provide relief for displaced residents.

As investigations continue, security personnel remain on the ground to protect lives and prevent further escalation of violence.