A deadly clash over a long-standing chieftaincy dispute in Sampa, the capital of Jaman North District, has left one woman dead, a police officer shot, and the town’s main market in flames. The violence, which erupted on Tuesday, September 10, has plunged the area into chaos, with residents fleeing amid ongoing gunfire.
Jaman North District Chief Executive (DCE) Adane George confirmed the crisis to Adom News, describing Sampa as a “volatile and dangerous” place. “There is no peace in Sampa. Gunshots and burning houses are all we hear. Our main market is on fire,” he said. Several homes have also been set ablaze, escalating fears among locals.
The unrest was sparked by reports that the National House of Chiefs plans to gazette one of the rival chiefs, reigniting tensions in a dispute ongoing since 2022. “One side heard about the gazetting, and that triggered the violence,” George explained. The District Security Committee (DISEC) was reviewing a local curfew—imposed earlier due to prior clashes—when the violence broke out.
A police officer injured in the gunfire is receiving treatment, and security reinforcements are being deployed to restore order. George warned that without swift government intervention, the situation could worsen, urging for more resources to contain the crisis.
