By Patrick Teah
Grand Kru County — Panic and fear gripped residents of Upper Sasstown this week following a violent confrontation over a disputed gold-rich mining area. Eyewitnesses reported hearing gunshots on March 8, prompting residents to flee into the surrounding bushes as armed men clashed over control of the site.
According to local sources, men from Bolloh Kaykpo and Poe Town entered the contested mining area, which is believed to contain significant gold deposits. The incursion quickly escalated into a tense standoff, causing widespread alarm among nearby villagers. “We heard the gunfire and ran for our lives,” said one resident who asked to remain anonymous. “No one knows who will be targeted next, and families are terrified to stay in their homes.”
The incident has drawn the attention of county authorities, who are reportedly engaging with community leaders from both sides in an effort to ease tensions. Local officials confirmed that dialogue has begun, but acknowledged that the situation remains fragile. “We are urging calm and calling on all parties to avoid further escalation,” a county spokesperson stated.
Residents are appealing to the national government for urgent intervention, emphasizing the need to prevent what many fear could become a deadly conflict. Community leaders are calling for clear demarcation of land rights and lawful oversight of the gold mining operations to ensure the safety of local populations.
The dispute highlights longstanding tensions over land ownership and resource control in Grand Kru County, a region known for its mineral wealth but also for periodic conflicts over access to valuable deposits.
As the situation unfolds, authorities face mounting pressure to restore peace and prevent any further violence in Upper Sasstown’s gold mining areas.
