A man has been shot dead following a gun battle with police during an operation linked to a chieftaincy dispute at Akwapim-Akropong.
The deceased, identified as Kwasi Ansah Eku, also known as “Dragon”, allegedly resisted arrest and opened fire on officers, leading to an exchange that lasted nearly two hours.
According to a situational report, the operation was carried out in the early hours of yesterday, April 10, 2026, by personnel from the Ghana Police Service, specifically the Eastern Regional Police Intelligence Directorate, with support from the National Headquarters.
The exercise formed part of efforts to arrest individuals captured in videos allegedly involved in violent clashes during the Awukudae festival held on April 8.
“Police announced their presence and called the suspect to come out. As officers attempted to gain entry, the suspect fired several shots. Police returned fire, and in the ensuing exchange which lasted about two hours, he was shot dead,” the report stated.
The police say they retrieved a pump-action gun, along with spent and live AA cartridges, from the scene. Three other suspects were arrested during the operation. They have been identified as Bright Ofori Asante, also known as “Bonto”, 33; Kwame Ayeh, also known as “Saboba”, 41; and Elvis Adjei, 19.
The suspects are alleged to have obstructed police operations and were also identified in footage connected to the earlier disturbances.
“The suspects have been transferred to Koforidua for further investigations, while the body has been deposited at the Police Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy,” the report added.
The incident highlights escalating tensions linked to chieftaincy disputes in the area, with authorities intensifying efforts to restore calm and ensure those involved in recent violence are brought to justice.
Police say investigations are ongoing.
By Vera Owusu Sarpong