The Western Central Regional Police Command has restored calm in Aboso following a violent disturbance that broke out during an anti-drug swoop on December 31, 2025.
Confirming the incident, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Beatrice Turkson, Head of the Public Affairs Unit of the Command, said the operation was part of security measures ahead of the 31st December crossover night.
“The operation was aimed at clearing Aboso of suspected drug peddlers, users and traffickers as part of our security preparations,” ASP Turkson stated.
According to her, about 70 suspected drug dealers, pushers and users were arrested during the exercise. Trouble, however, began when police officers were preparing to transport the suspects to the police station.
ASP Turkson explained that an individual identified as Chairman Dela approached the officers in an attempt to intervene but was informed that the operation strictly targeted suspected drug-related activities.
“After engaging the officers, the individual moved to address a crowd that had gathered, and the situation suddenly escalated,” she noted.
Police say some members of the crowd became hostile, armed themselves with guns, cutlasses, machetes and stones, and began firing shots and pelting police personnel with stones.
“In order to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of our officers, the team tactically withdrew from the area,” the police spokesperson said.
The officers were reportedly chased from the Gangway area to the Aboso Market. During the pursuit, some officers, acting in self-defence, discharged their weapons.
In the ensuing confusion, two youths sustained gunshot wounds, while another male youth was found unconscious with blood oozing from the back of his head. He was immediately transported by police to the Apinto Government Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
ASP Turkson said calm has since been restored in the area, adding that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
“We urge the public to remain calm and cooperate with the Police as investigations continue. Further updates will be provided as and when necessary,” she assured.
