Three Killed, 34 Arrested After Deadly Funsi Chieftaincy Shooting

Three people have been confirmed dead while 34 suspects have been arrested in connection with a deadly shooting linked to a chieftaincy dispute at Funsi in the Wa East District of the Upper West Region.

The violent incident, which occurred on the night of May 22, 2026, has triggered heightened tensions in the area and prompted a major security deployment by the Upper West Regional Police Command to restore calm and prevent further clashes.

According to Citi News, police initially responded to distress calls of a shooting incident in the Gbelonosi area of Funsi, where two people were reported dead upon arrival.

The deceased were identified as 37-year-old Fufulu Nandug and 22-year-old Yussif Samahan.

During subsequent operations, security personnel discovered a third body, identified as 20-year-old Amadu Lukman, bringing the total number of fatalities to three.

Upper West Regional Police Commander, Francis Yiribaare, later led a reinforcement team to the community to support ongoing investigations and strengthen security amid rising tensions over the long-standing chieftaincy conflict.

Police also retrieved several items believed to be linked to the violence, including a shotgun, bows and arrows, gunpowder, spent cartridges, talisman-embedded smocks, and a medallion allegedly associated with rival factions.

Authorities say all 34 suspects, along with the seized exhibits, have been transported to Wa to assist with investigations and possible prosecution.

The Police Administration has extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that anyone found culpable will face the full rigors of the law.

Meanwhile, the Regional Police Command has urged residents of Funsi to remain calm, avoid reprisals, and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to support investigations.

Security has since been reinforced in the area, with intensified patrols deployed to prevent further violence and maintain peace.