Three people are confirmed dead and 34 suspects have been arrested following a violent shooting incident linked to a chieftaincy dispute in Funsi, located in the Wa East District of the Upper West Region. The incident, which occurred on the night of May 22, 2026, has escalated community tensions, prompting a significant security deployment by the Upper West Regional Police Command to restore order and prevent further conflict.
Security Response and Initial Findings
The Upper West Regional Police Command was alerted to a shooting in the Gbelonosi section of Funsi, initially reporting two fatalities. Upon arrival, officers discovered the bodies of Fufulu Nandug, 37, and Yussif Samahan, 22, both deceased from gunshot wounds.
A subsequent search of the community led to the discovery of a third body, identified as 20-year-old Amadu Lukman, bringing the total death toll to three. These killings are believed to be directly connected to a long-standing chieftaincy dispute that has historically caused intermittent tensions between rival factions in the area.
Intensified Operations and Recovered Items
Commissioner of Police Francis Yiribaare, the Upper West Regional Police Commander, led a reinforcement team to Funsi to support ongoing investigations and stabilize the security situation. The police have arrested a total of 34 suspects in connection with the violence as security operations intensify.
During these operations, several items believed to be linked to the disturbances were retrieved. These include a shotgun, bow and arrows, quantities of gunpowder, spent cartridges, and distinctive talisman-embedded smocks and a medallion reportedly associated with the rival factions involved in the chieftaincy conflict.
All arrested suspects and the recovered exhibits have been transferred to Wa to aid in the ongoing investigations and potential prosecution. Investigators are working diligently to establish the precise circumstances that led to the outbreak of violence and to identify all individuals involved in the shooting.
Community Appeal and Future Stability
The Police Service has extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. They have assured the public that any individual found culpable will face the full force of the law.
The Upper West Regional Police Command has appealed to the residents of Funsi to maintain calm, avoid any retaliatory actions, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to assist the investigation. Additional security personnel have been deployed to the area, and intensified patrols are underway to prevent further escalation and ensure the restoration of lasting peace.
Authorities have emphasized that maintaining stability within the community is their top priority as the investigation into the chieftaincy-related violence continues.
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