Man Killed in 2-Hour Police Shootout During Akropong Chieftaincy Raid.

Kwasi Ansah Eku, alias “Dragon”, was shot dead on April 10, 2026, after a prolonged exchange of gunfire with police at Akwapim-Akropong in the Eastern Region.

Police operation

According to a police situational report, personnel from the Eastern Regional Police Intelligence Directorate, supported by the National Headquarters, carried out the raid in the early hours of April 10.

The operation targeted individuals captured in videos allegedly participating in violent clashes during the Awukudae celebration in Akropong on April 8.

Officers went to a house on Akuffo Road to arrest Eku.

The report stated: “Police announced their presence and called suspect come out of the room. As Police attempted forcing ingress suspect fired several shots at Police.

Police returned fire and in the gunfire exchange which lasted for about two hours he was shot dead. His body was retrieved.”

Police said a pump-action gun, along with several spent and live AA cartridges, was retrieved from the suspect after the exchange.

Arrests and investigations

Three other suspects were arrested during the operation: Bright Ofori Asante, alias “Bonto”, 33; Kwame Ayeh, alias “Saboba”, 41; and Elvis Adjei, 19.

Police said the three allegedly obstructed officers and were also identified in footage linked to the earlier disturbances.

The suspects have been sent to Koforidua. Eku’s body was taken to the Police Hospital morgue for preservation and autopsy. The pump-action gun and cartridges were kept as exhibits.

Rising tensions

The incident highlights heightened tensions surrounding chieftaincy disputes in the area. Authorities say they are stepping up efforts to restore calm and bring those involved in the recent clashes to justice.

Police say investigations are ongoing.