Three people have been confirmed dead and 34 suspects arrested following a violent shooting linked to a chieftaincy dispute in Funsi in the Wa East District of the Upper West Region.
The incident happened on the night of May 22, 2026, and has heightened tensions in the community, prompting a heavy security deployment to restore calm and prevent further violence.
According to the police, officers responding to reports of gunfire in the Gbelonosi area of Funsi found the bodies of 37-year-old Fufulu Nandug and 22-year-old Yussif Samahan, both believed to have died from gunshot wounds.
A later search in the community led to the discovery of a third victim, 20-year-old Amadu Lukman, bringing the death toll to three.
Police believe the killings are connected to a long-running chieftaincy dispute between rival factions in the area.
Following the violence, Upper West Regional Police Commander, COP Francis Yiribaare, led a reinforcement team to Funsi to support investigations and strengthen security.
Authorities said 34 suspects have since been arrested as operations continue across the community.
Security officers also retrieved several items believed to be linked to the violence, including a shotgun, bow and arrows, gunpowder, spent cartridges, talisman-embedded smocks, and a medallion allegedly connected to the rival groups.
Police said all suspects and exhibits have been transferred to Wa to assist with investigations and possible prosecution.
The Police Service has extended condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that anyone found responsible will face the law.
Residents have meanwhile been urged to remain calm, avoid reprisals and cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information.
Additional security personnel have been deployed to the area, with intensified patrols underway to maintain peace as investigations continue.
