3 Killed in Funsi Chieftaincy Clash as Police Arrest 34, Retrieve Weapons

Three people have been killed and 34 suspects arrested following a violent shooting incident linked to a longstanding chieftaincy dispute in Funsi, in the Wa East District of the Upper West Region.

According to a statement issued by the Upper West Regional Police Command, the incident occurred on the night of May 22, 2026, when police in Funsi received reports that two persons had been shot dead at the Gbelononi section of the community.

Police officers who rushed to the scene confirmed the deaths of 37-year-old Fufulu Nandugu and 22-year-old Yussif Samahan. During subsequent operations and investigations, officers also discovered the body of a third victim, identified as 20-year-old Amadu Lukman.

The Police said the killings are connected to ongoing chieftaincy tensions between rival gates in the community. A reinforcement team led by the Upper West Regional Police Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, later visited the community to support investigations and help maintain law and order.

The Command disclosed that 34 suspects have so far been arrested in connection with the violence. Security personnel also retrieved a number of exhibits, including a shotgun, bows and arrows, gunpowder, spent cartridges, talisman-embedded smocks, and a medallion believed to be central to the dispute.

All suspects and retrieved items have since been transported to Wa to aid ongoing investigations. The Police Administration expressed condolences to the bereaved families and assured the public that all persons found culpable would be brought to justice.

The Regional Police Command further appealed to residents and stakeholders in the area to remain calm, avoid reprisals, and cooperate with investigators by volunteering credible information.

Meanwhile, the Police say intensified patrols and additional security measures have been deployed in the community to maintain peace and prevent further violence.