Three people have been confirmed dead and 34 suspects arrested following a violent shooting incident linked to a chieftaincy dispute in Funsi in the Wa East District of the Upper West Region.
The deadly violence, which erupted on the night of May 22, 2026, has heightened tensions in the community and triggered a major security operation by the Upper West Regional Police Command aimed at restoring calm and preventing further clashes.
According to a police statement, officers responded to distress calls reporting gunfire in the Gbelonosi section of Funsi, where two people were allegedly shot dead.
Upon arrival at the scene, police discovered the bodies of 37-year-old Fufulu Nandug and 22-year-old Yussif Samahan. During subsequent operations in the community, investigators also uncovered the body of a third victim, identified as 20-year-old Amadu Lukman.
The Upper West Regional Police Commander, Francis Yiribaare, later led a reinforcement team to the area to support ongoing investigations and strengthen security as tensions surrounding the protracted chieftaincy conflict escalated.
Police also retrieved several items believed to be connected to the disturbances, including a shotgun, bows and arrows, gunpowder, spent cartridges, talisman-embedded smocks, and a medallion reportedly linked to tensions between rival gates in the community.
Authorities said all suspects, together with the retrieved exhibits, have been transported to Wa to assist with investigations and possible prosecution.
The Police Administration has extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that all persons found culpable in the violence will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Meanwhile, the Regional Police Command has appealed to residents and stakeholders in Funsi to remain calm, avoid reprisals, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to support investigations.
Police further indicated that intensified patrols and additional security deployments have been instituted in the area to maintain peace and prevent further violence.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
