By Franklin ASARE-DONKOH
The Upper West Regional Police Command says three people have been killed following a shooting incident linked to an ongoing chieftaincy dispute in Funsi in the Wa East District of the Upper West Region.
According to the police, 34 suspects have also been arrested in connection with the chieftaincy dispute.
A statement issued by the Upper West Regional Police Command said the incident occurred on the night of Friday, May 22, 2026, at the Gbelonosi section of the community.
The statement explained that officers in the area responded swiftly after receiving reports, and upon arriving at the scene, they found two people dead from gunshot wounds. The deceased were identified as 37-year-old Fufulu Nandug and 22-year-old Yussif Samahan.
It added that during subsequent operations and investigations, a third victim, identified as 20-year-old Amadu Lukman, was also found dead in the community.
The Upper West Regional Police Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, led a reinforcement team to Funsi to support investigations and help maintain law and order amid rising tensions over the chieftaincy dispute.
Police said 34 suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the violence.
Security personnel also retrieved several items, including a shotgun, bow and arrows, gunpowder, spent cartridges, talisman-embedded smocks and a medallion believed to be linked to the tensions between rival gates in the community.
All the suspects and retrieved exhibits have been transferred to Wa to assist with ongoing investigations.
The Police Administration expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that those responsible for the violence will be brought to justice.
Meanwhile, the Regional Command has appealed to residents and stakeholders to remain calm, avoid reprisals and cooperate with investigators by providing credible information.
Police added that intensified patrols and additional security measures have been deployed in the area to maintain peace and security.
