The Western Central Regional Police Command has confirmed the death of one young man and injuries to two others following a violent disturbance that erupted during a major anti-drug swoop in Aboso on Wednesday 31 December 2025.
In a press release dated December 31, 2025, police authorities stated that the operation was part of security preparations for the crossover night, aimed at “clearing the town of drug peddlers, users, and traffickers.”
Approximately seventy (70) suspects were arrested during the exercise.
Trouble began, according to the police account, as officers prepared to transport the suspects. An individual identified as “Chairman Dela” approached to intervene on behalf of those arrested. After being informed of the operation’s nature, Dela addressed a growing crowd.
The situation rapidly deteriorated. Police allege that some in the crowd became hostile, arming themselves with guns, cutlasses, machetes, and stones. The crowd began firing shots and hurling stones at the police personnel.
“In order to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of officers, the police team tactically withdrew from the area,” the statement read.
Officers were pursued from the Gangway area to the Aboso Market. Police say that during this retreat, “some officers, acting in self-defence, discharged their weapons.”
In the ensuing chaos, two youths sustained gunshot wounds. Another young man was found unconscious with a head injury. He was rushed by police to the Apinto Government Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Regional Police Command asserts that calm has been restored to the area and that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
The Police is urging the public to remain calm, and to cooperate with them while investigation continues.
