One Dead in Police Shoot-Out Over Akwapim-Akropong Chieftaincy Clash
Police say the suspect opened fire during an arrest operation linked to violent chieftaincy clashes in the area
- One suspect, identified as Kwasi Ansah Eku, was shot dead after a prolonged gun battle with police
- The intelligence-led operation targeted individuals linked to violent chieftaincy clashes
- Police retrieved a pump-action gun and live and spent cartridges
A man has been shot dead following a prolonged exchange of gunfire with police during an operation linked to a chieftaincy dispute at Akwapim-Akropong in the Eastern Region.
The deceased, identified as Kwasi Ansah Eku, also known as “Dragon,” reportedly resisted arrest and opened fire on officers during the operation, which lasted about two hours.
Police say a pump-action gun, along with spent and live AA cartridges, was retrieved from the scene after the exchange.
According to a police situational report, the operation was conducted in the early hours of April 10, 2026, by officers from the Eastern Regional Police Intelligence Directorate, with support from National Headquarters.
The exercise was aimed at arresting individuals captured in videos allegedly involved in violent disturbances during the Awukudae celebrations at Akropong on April 8.
Police proceeded to a residence on Akuffo Road to arrest the suspect, identified as Kwasi Ansah Eku. Officers announced their presence and ordered him to come out of his room.
However, the suspect allegedly opened fire as officers attempted to enter, prompting a return of fire. The exchange of gunfire lasted about two hours, after which he was shot dead and his body retrieved from the scene.
Three other suspects were arrested during the operation. They have been identified as Bright Ofori Asante (alias “Bonto”), 33; Kwame Ayeh (alias “Saboba”), 41; and Elvis Adjei, 19.
They are alleged to have obstructed police operations and were also captured in footage linked to the earlier disturbances.
The suspects have been transferred to Koforidua, while the body of the deceased has been deposited at the Police Hospital mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
Police also retrieved a pump-action gun and several spent and live cartridges from the scene.
The incident highlights growing tensions over chieftaincy disputes in the area, with security agencies intensifying efforts to restore calm and bring those involved in recent violence to justice.
