ISTANBUL

At least 33 people were killed in intercommunal violence in southwestern Chad over a disputed well, according to local media on Wednesday.

The intercommunal clash occurred late on Tuesday in Dibebe, about 15 kilometers (9.3 miles) from Ngoura in the southwestern Hadjer-Lamis province, Tchadinfos news website reported, citing local sources.

The conflict, sparked by a dispute over a well claimed by two communities, left 18 people dead and 20 others injured in Hadjer-Lamis province, while 15 were killed and as many injured in neighboring Barh El Gazal, according to a provisional toll.

Several witnesses said the dispute, which dates back to a 1967 land conflict, has left tensions high on Wednesday despite the deployment of security forces.

Chad’s Territorial Administration Minister Limane Mahamat, Justice Minister Youssouf Tom, and Public Security Minister Ali Ahmat Akhabach visited the site to assess the situation and help restore calm.