In a shocking turn of events, three suspects have been apprehended following a violent attack that claimed the life of one individual and disrupted the enskinment ceremony of a newly selected chief in the Tindorunga community, located within the Tempane District of Ghana's Upper East Region. The incident, which has left the community in turmoil, occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
The Attack and Its Aftermath
At approximately 3:00 a.m., armed assailants stormed the residence of Sambin Halidu, who was preparing for his enskinment ceremony as the new chief of Tindorunga. The attackers opened fire indiscriminately, causing panic and chaos among Halidu's family members. Tragically, one individual, identified as Iddrisu Sumaila, succumbed to gunshot wounds after being rushed to the hospital. In addition to the fatality, a Mitsubishi 4×4 vehicle belonging to the family, bearing registration number GE 1115-13, was set ablaze during the assault.
Arrests and Evidence Retrieval
Following swift action by law enforcement, three suspects were arrested during an operation conducted later that morning. The individuals taken into custody include Majeed Bawumya (34), Milla Justice (27), and Majeed Awudu (20). A search at the residence of one of the suspects, Majeed Bawumya Agbango—also known as Atan Majeed—yielded critical evidence. Among the items retrieved were a BRUNI MOD 92 Cal. 8mmK pistol, several sharp objects, GH¢600 in cash, and three mobile phones believed to be linked to the crime.
Root Cause: A Dispute Over Enskinment
Preliminary investigations by the police suggest that the attack stemmed from a dispute surrounding the enskinment process. Approximately one month prior to the ceremony, kingmakers of Worinyanga had presented three candidates for vetting by Naba Zugraan Asigri Abugrago Azoka II, the Overlord of Bawku. Sambin Halidu emerged as the chosen candidate, a decision met with resistance from an opposing faction led by Majeed Bawumya Agbango.
Reports indicate that members of this faction had openly protested Halidu's selection and issued threats to disrupt the ceremony. On the night preceding the attack, suspect Alhassan Sabrina and other accomplices—who remain at large—allegedly convened at Bawumya Agbango’s residence to plan their assault.
Police Response and Community Appeal
The Upper East Regional Police Command has assured residents of its commitment to ensuring justice is served. Authorities are actively pursuing additional suspects and have urged community members to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing investigations.
While efforts are being made to restore peace and stability in Tindorunga, this tragic incident underscores the need for dialogue and unity in resolving disputes related to traditional leadership transitions. The enskinment process is a deeply rooted cultural tradition that should serve as a source of pride and cohesion rather than division.
Conclusion
As investigations continue, it is imperative for all stakeholders—traditional leaders, community members, and law enforcement—to collaborate in fostering harmony within Tindorunga and beyond. The loss of life and disruption caused by this attack is a sobering reminder of the consequences of unresolved conflicts. It is hoped that justice will prevail and that measures will be put in place to prevent such incidents in the future.
Let us work together to uphold peace and preserve the rich cultural heritage that binds our communities.
-By Tetteh Belinda | GhanaCrimes
