The mining town of Manso Nyankomase in the Amansie South District of the Ashanti Region was thrown into chaos on Tuesday, October 14, as irate youth staged a violent protest against what they described as unprovoked military brutality during a government-led mining land reclamation exercise.

According to eyewitnesses, the protest erupted after soldiers allegedly assaulted residents during the operation.

Hundreds of angry youth poured onto the streets, blocking major roads, burning vehicle tyres, and chanting war songs to express their outrage.

Thick plumes of black smoke filled the air as commercial activities ground to a halt, leaving vehicles and traders stranded for hours.

The disturbance followed an incident on Monday, October 13, when military personnel reportedly opened fire on unarmed residents, injuring at least five people.

The soldiers had been deployed to enforce a government-backed land reclamation exercise aimed at restoring areas degraded by illegal mining (galamsey).

However, tensions escalated when residents confronted the military over their actions, sparking violent clashes.

One eyewitness, Madam Afia Serwaa, a local trader, described the scene as terrifying.

“People were running helter-skelter. The soldiers were beating men and even chasing women. Some people hid in their rooms. They treated us like animals. We support the government’s efforts to reclaim the land, but not with guns and beatings,” she lamented.

Wearing red armbands, the protesting youth blocked the Manso–Datano road, demanding justice for the injured and an end to what they called “military intimidation.”

Another resident, Akua Mother, who narrowly escaped the violence, recounted: “They arrived without warning, beating people and seizing mining tools. When we asked why, they threatened to shoot us. Now our brothers are in hospital, and our town is in chaos. We need the government to act immediately.”

Health officials confirmed that five residents sustained gunshot wounds, while several others were treated for bruises and shock at nearby facilities.

Security personnel from the Manso Adubia Police Command and members of the Amansie South District Security Council were later deployed to restore calm.

Although the police eventually dispersed the protesters, the atmosphere in the community remained tense.

Traditional leaders in Manso Nyankomase have condemned the military’s actions and are demanding an independent investigation into the incident.

“We support the government’s reclamation agenda, but not at the expense of our people’s lives,” one chief told reporters.

“Innocent residents have been brutalised, and farmlands destroyed. The government must hold those responsible accountable.”

Residents are calling on Dr. Frank Amoakohene, the Ashanti Regional Minister, and Mr. Benjamin Marfo, the Amansie South District Chief Executive, to visit the community, engage affected residents, and ensure that future reclamation exercises are carried out peacefully and transparently.