One killed in fresh Bunkpurugu shooting despite heavy security presence

One person has been shot dead by unidentified masked gunmen riding motorbikes in Bunkpurugu in the North East Region, despite the heavy presence of security personnel in the area. The incident occurred on Monday evening, with the victim identified as Jaremian, a middle-aged man who was reportedly shot near his residence. The latest shooting follows renewed tensions in the area on Sunday, November 1, after a lone gunman reportedly opened fire, disrupting activities at the town’s weekly market.

The latest violence comes against the backdrop of a protracted chieftaincy dispute involving the Jamong and Jafouk royal families, which has triggered recurring clashes and heightened security concerns in the area. The dispute intensified following the enskinment of Melchizedek Musah Jamung as Bunkpurugu chief on September 14, 2026, despite an ongoing legal contest over the traditional authority of the Bunkpurugu skin.

In a related development, the Overlord of the Mamprugu Traditional Area, Naa Bohagu Abdulai Mahami Sheriga, has filed an application at the High Court in Nalerigu seeking to have four individuals committed for contempt of court over the disputed enskinment. The legal action follows a February 24, 2026, decision by the Judicial Committee of the National House of Chiefs, which recommended the removal of Alhaji Abuba Nasimong as Bunkpurugu chief.

An appeal against that decision was subsequently filed at the Supreme Court on August 26, 2026. The dispute has been accompanied by violent clashes, loss of lives, destruction of property and displacement of residents. According to an earlier MyJoyOnline report, the September enskinment triggered violence that claimed the life of a woman and left four others injured.

Joint police and military teams have since intensified security operations to contain the situation. Chief condemns renewed violence Speaking to JoyNews, the Paramount Chief of Bunkpurugu, Naa Abuba Nasinmong, condemned the renewed disturbances and called on security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent further escalation. He appealed to all parties to exercise restraint and bring an end to the hostilities to restore peace and stability in the area.

Residents question security presence Meanwhile, residents have criticised the security agencies, questioning their effectiveness in protecting lives and property despite the significant deployment of security personnel. The latest killing has heightened fears among residents, who are concerned that the recurring violence could further undermine peace and disrupt economic and social activities in the area.

Residents are therefore calling for urgent and decisive intervention by the government and security agencies to prevent further bloodshed and restore lasting peace in Bunkpurugu.