A man has been shot dead following a prolonged 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,” reportedly resisted arrest and opened fire on officers, triggering an exchange that lasted nearly two hours.
According to police, a pump-action gun, along with several spent and live AA cartridges, was retrieved from the suspect after the operation.
Police Operation
A situational report from the Ghana Police Service indicated that the exercise was carried out in the early hours of April 10, 2026, by personnel from the Eastern Regional Police Intelligence Directorate, with support from the National Headquarters.
The operation formed part of efforts to arrest individuals captured in videos allegedly participating in violent clashes during the Awukudae celebration in Akropong on April 8.
Police stated that officers proceeded to a house on Akuffo Road to arrest the suspect and announced their presence, calling on him to surrender.
“As police attempted forcing ingress, the suspect fired several shots at officers. Police returned fire, and in the ensuing exchange, which lasted about two hours, he was shot dead. His body was retrieved,” the report said.
Arrests and Investigations
Police further disclosed that three additional suspects were arrested during the operation. They were identified as Bright Ofori Asante (33), Kwame Ayeh (41), and Elvis Adjei (19).
The suspects are alleged to have obstructed police and were also identified in footage connected to the earlier disturbances.
Authorities said the suspects have been transferred to Koforidua, while the body of the deceased has been deposited at the Police Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy.
Rising Tensions
The incident highlights growing tensions surrounding chieftaincy disputes in the area, with security agencies intensifying efforts to restore calm and bring those responsible for recent violence to justice.
The Ghana Police Service has indicated that investigations are ongoing.
