Abu Tijani, a key suspect in the murder of two youths in Kandau, died on Saturday, July 25, 2026, hours after his arrest. The Police Professional Standards Bureau (PPSB) has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. This development adds a new dimension to the high-profile Kandau killings, which have drawn significant attention in the Upper West Region since November 2025.
Tijani, also known as Master One, 35, had been on the police wanted list since allegedly escaping arrest on May 11, 2026. He was sought in connection with the killing of two youths in Kandau on November 23, 2025. Police had previously engaged the Paramount Chief of Wechau and his elders to encourage Tijani to report and assist with investigations.
During interrogation after his arrest, Abu Tijani admitted involvement in the incident. He provided information regarding the alleged movement of the deceased bodies. The suspect led investigators to an initial burial location approximately three kilometres west of Wechau, towards the Black Volta River. A search at this site yielded no remains.
According to police reports, Abu Tijani then told investigators that he and his accomplices had exhumed the bodies. They subsequently moved them across the Black Volta River into Burkina Faso, allegedly to avoid detection. This claim further complicated the ongoing murder investigation.
Police were later escorting the suspect to locate another alleged accomplice along the Nakore road when he complained of a severe headache. This occurred while he was in the police vehicle. As a precautionary measure, officers transported him to the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Hospital in Wa.
Abu Tijani was admitted to the hospital at about 1:00 PM. Medical authorities pronounced him dead at approximately 4:37 PM after efforts to treat him failed. His body has since been deposited at the Upper West Regional Hospital Morgue for preservation and autopsy, which is expected to clarify the cause of death.
The Upper West Regional Police Command has engaged traditional authorities and representatives of the Wechau community regarding this development. Regional Commander, DCOP Francis Yiribaare, briefed a delegation from the Paramount Chief of Wechau on the events leading to the suspect’s death. He appealed for calm among the community members.
DCOP Yiribaare assured the community that the Ghana Police Service is committed to a transparent investigation. The PPSB inquiry will determine whether any wrongdoing occurred in connection with Tijani’s arrest, treatment, or death. At the delegation's request, police escorted them to the Regional Hospital mortuary to identify and inspect the body. The delegation then returned to brief the Paramount Chief and the people of Wechau.
The police have urged the public to remain calm and avoid speculation. They emphasize the importance of allowing due process to establish the full circumstances surrounding the suspect’s death. This incident underscores the complexities and sensitivities involved in high-profile criminal investigations, particularly those with community implications.