Violence Erupts in Sampa: One Killed, Officer Shot, Market Set Ablaze Amid Chieftaincy Tensions

A long-standing chieftaincy dispute has plunged Sampa, the capital of the Jaman North District, into turmoil, resulting in the death of a woman, injury to a police officer, and the destruction of the town’s main market by fire. Several homes have also been burnt, forcing many residents to flee in fear.

Speaking to Adom News, District Chief Executive (DCE) Adane George described the situation as dire and unstable, with persistent gunfire heard throughout the area.

“There’s no peace in Sampa right now—only gunshots and burning houses,” he stated. “Our main market is up in flames, one woman has died, and multiple homes have been destroyed.”

According to the DCE, the violence was sparked by news that the National House of Chiefs might soon gazette one of the rival claimants to the Sampa stool, intensifying an already volatile situation.

“One faction got wind that a rival claimant would be officially recognized, and that sparked the chaos,” he explained.

This dispute, which first escalated in 2022, has been a source of recurring conflict in the town. Ironically, the latest violence erupted just as the District Security Council (DISEC) was meeting to reassess the existing curfew due to a period of relative calm.

“We were in the middle of a DISEC meeting to review the curfew when the violence began,” Mr. George said.

The injured police officer is currently receiving medical care, while intermittent gunfire continues to unsettle the community. Many residents have either fled or are hiding in their homes. Security reinforcements are being dispatched to regain control and prevent further unrest.

The DCE stressed the urgent need for national security intervention and logistical support, warning that the situation could deteriorate rapidly without swift government action.