Two persons are receiving treatment at the Holy Family Hospital in Nkawkaw after sustaining gunshot wounds during a clash between rival groups at an illegal mining site at Behenase, near Awiregya, in the Kwahu West Municipality of the Eastern Region.

The incident has raised concerns among residents over growing violence and insecurity associated with illegal mining activities, popularly known as galamsey, in the area.

Residents of Behenase were reportedly thrown into a state of fear when a confrontation between the two groups turned violent, resulting in gunfire.

The two victims were rushed to the Holy Family Hospital in Nkawkaw for medical attention.

One of the victims is reported to have suffered serious injuries to his genital area during the incident and is currently receiving treatment.

The assembly member for the Awiregya electoral area, Sampson Tenkorang, described the incident as disturbing and said similar clashes had occurred in the area in the past.

He appealed to National Security and other law enforcement agencies to intensify operations in the area and take steps to curb the illegal mining activities.

The residents are also calling for increased security presence and enforcement to restore peace and protect lives and property in the community.