Three suspects were arrested on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, in connection with a fatal attack that claimed one life and a violent assault on the elected chief of the Tindorunga community in Worinyanga, Tempane District, Upper East Region.
Context of the Violence
The arrests follow a violent incident that erupted just before the scheduled enskinment of Sambin Halidu as the chief of Tindorunga. The Upper East Regional Police Command stated that preliminary investigations revealed a dispute over the selection of the new chief.
About a month prior, kingmakers from Worinyanga presented three candidates, including Sambin Halidu, to the Overlord of Bawku, Naba Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II. However, an opposing faction, allegedly led by one of the arrested suspects, Majeed Bawumya Agbango, also known as Atan Majeed, protested the choice of Halidu.
This faction reportedly threatened to disrupt the enskinment ceremony planned for May 26, 2026. The police report indicates that on the eve of the ceremony, May 25, 2026, a meeting was held at Agbango’s residence where plans to disrupt the event were allegedly formulated.
The Attack and Arrests
In the early hours of May 26, around 3:00 a.m., while Sambin Halidu and his family were preparing for the enskinment, attackers reportedly stormed their home. The suspects, identified by the police as Majeed Bawumya, 34, Milla Justice, 27, and Majeed Awudu, 20, are alleged to have used offensive weapons, including a pistol, firing indiscriminately.
During the assault, the attackers also allegedly set fire to a Mitsubishi 4×4 vehicle belonging to Halidu’s family. Several individuals sustained injuries in the ensuing chaos.
One victim, Iddrisu Sumaila, who suffered gunshot wounds, was pronounced dead after being taken to the hospital. The swift police operation on May 26, commencing at approximately 6:00 a.m., led to the apprehension of the three suspects.
Evidence Recovered
A search conducted at the residence of Majeed Bawumya Agbango, also known as Atan Majeed, yielded significant evidence. Police recovered a BRUNI MOD 92 Cal. 8mmK pistol, several sharp objects, GH¢600 in cash, and three mobile phones believed to be connected to the crime.
The police statement, dated May 28, 2026, and signed by Upper East Regional Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Inspector Abdul-Rahman Sumaila, detailed these findings.
Community Impact and Police Assurance
The violence has cast a shadow over the Tindorunga community and highlighted the deep-seated tensions surrounding traditional leadership succession. The incident underscores the potential for conflict when community decisions face organized opposition.
The Upper East Regional Police Command has pledged its commitment to maintaining law and order. They urged the public to remain calm and cooperate with the ongoing investigations as efforts are made to locate and arrest other individuals believed to be involved and currently at large, including suspect Alhassan Sabrina.
Looking Ahead
The arrests represent a crucial step in the investigation, but the apprehension of additional suspects remains a priority for law enforcement. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges in managing traditional succession processes and the importance of peaceful conflict resolution. Observers will be watching closely to see how these developments impact community relations and the future of leadership in the Tindorunga area, as well as the broader implications for stability in the Tempane District.
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