Gunshots at Drobo During Demolition Exercise Heighten Tensions in Jaman South

Drobo, Bono Region – January 20, 2026

Tension has once again gripped the Jaman South Municipality in the Bono Region following reports of gunfire during a controversial demolition exercise in Drobo on Monday, January 20, 2026.

The incident, which pitted youth groups believed to be from Japekrom and Kwasibukrom against residents of Drobo, has reignited long-standing land disputes between the communities.

Eyewitnesses indicate that the confrontation began when a group of young men from Japekrom, supported by others from Kwasibukrom, entered Drobo to demolish a structure on a parcel of land they claimed belonged to a Japekrom native. They argued that their community holds traditional custodianship over the land, citing historical ownership and ancestral claims.

Residents of Drobo, however, strongly opposed the action. According to them, while the land may be subject to claims from Japekrom, the structure itself is owned by a Drobo native and falls within Drobo’s administrative jurisdiction as the municipal capital. They insist that no external group has the authority to undertake demolition exercises without due legal process or consultation.

The situation quickly escalated when some Drobo youth resisted the demolition. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, with other weapons allegedly used during the confrontation. The sound of gunfire triggered panic across parts of the town, forcing residents to flee their homes while several businesses shut down temporarily.

Although there has been no official confirmation of casualties, fear and tension remain high within the community.

The incident is the latest in a series of disputes rooted in a long-standing boundary and land ownership conflict between Drobo and Japekrom. For decades, Japekrom has maintained claims of traditional ownership over certain lands, while Drobo continues to assert administrative control and governance over those same areas.

These competing claims have, over the years, led to periodic violent clashes, resulting in injuries, loss of lives, and destruction of property. Security interventions, including curfews and movement restrictions, have been imposed in the past, but a lasting resolution has remained elusive.

The events of January 20, 2026, underscore the fragile nature of peace in the Jaman South area. The involvement of youth groups and the reported use of firearms raise serious concerns about the potential for further escalation if immediate steps are not taken.

Meanwhile, tensions are not isolated to Jaman South alone. In Sampa within the Jaman North District, a protracted chieftaincy dispute between rival factions continues to simmer, adding to concerns about broader instability across the Jaman enclave.

Stakeholders, including traditional authorities, government officials, and security agencies, are being urged to act swiftly to restore calm and pursue a lasting resolution. Observers stress the need for strengthened mediation, strict enforcement of the rule of law, and inclusive dialogue between all parties involved.

Residents across Drobo, Japekrom, and neighbouring communities continue to call for peace, emphasizing the urgent need to prioritize development and coexistence over recurring conflict.