The Director General of the CID, Commissioner of Police Lydia Yaako Donkor, announced the development on Monday, March 9, 2026, at a press briefing in Accra.

She said the Police Cold Case Unit has taken over the investigations.

COP Donkor said no one has been brought before the courts in connection with any of the four cases.

The cases involve the disappearance of Paulina Lamisi, the Tema West Constituency Women’s Organiser of the National Democratic Congress, the murder of Stella Adjoa Potakedonko at Tema Golf City, the killing of Anthony Kudjo Tettey Ehiamah at Oyarifa, and the fatal stabbing of Francis Yaw Frimpong, known as Nana Pooley, a supporter of Asante Kotoko Sporting Club.

Ms Lamisi was reported missing on June 12, 2024. COP Donkor said her whereabouts remain unknown and appealed to the public for information.

“The Cold Case Unit is appealing to the public for any information that may assist in locating her or establishing the circumstances surrounding her disappearance,” she said.

Ms Potakedonko was found dead in her room at Tema Golf City on February 11, 2024. COP Donkor said the identity of those responsible has not yet been established. The unit is reviewing evidence and witness accounts as part of the renewed investigation.

Mr Ehiamah, an employee of Dizengoff Ghana, was killed at Oyarifa on September 18, 2024. COP Donkor said investigations into his death had stalled but the Cold Case Unit has now taken up the case again to identify and prosecute those responsible.

On the killing of Nana Pooley, COP Donkor said he was fatally stabbed during a Ghana Premier League match between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman FC after an altercation with an unidentified person during the game.

She said the Sunyani CID is pursuing leads that may lead to the arrest of those involved, while the Cold Case Unit is also reviewing the matter.

COP Donkor added that the unit is reviewing other cases which were not mentioned at the briefing.

“No case of murder, disappearance or violent crime will be abandoned,” she said. “Every victim and every family deserves justice and the Ghana Police Service will continue to pursue all available leads with diligence and thoroughness.”

She urged members of the public with information on any of the cases to report to the nearest police station, call the police emergency line 191, or contact the CID Headquarters directly. COP Donkor said all information received will be treated with strict confidentiality.

Pooley was fatally stabbed by an unidentified fan during Kotoko’s match against the now-defunct Nsoatreman FC in Nsoatre on February 2, 2025. He was discovered at the stadium entrance with severe injuries, bleeding from his stomach.

In a statement on Monday, February 2, the club remembered Pooley as a devoted fan whose life was senselessly cut short.

“We stand together to remember a fallen supporter whose life was cut short by mindless hooliganism—a tragedy that should never happen again,” Kotoko said.

“The pain of his absence is still felt every day. Pooley lived for the beautiful game, and while some hooligans took his life, they can never take away his memories, the joy, and the love he brought to the stands.”

No convictions have been made, as the case remains in court with eight individuals currently on trial.

“Today, we call for continued justice and recommit ourselves to ensuring our game centres remain places of safety and unity, free from violence,” the club added.

Full Statement:

The incident cast a shadow over last season’s Premier League, prompting a month-long suspension of matches to allow stakeholder consultations and the introduction of stricter safety measures.

Following the events, Nsoatreman FC withdrew from the competition.

Pooley tragically lost his life in February during a league match against Nsoatreman FC. Eight individuals have been charged in connection with the incident, but the case remains before the courts.

Kotoko’s Communications Director, Sarfo Duku, speaking to JoySports, emphasised the need for urgency in resolving the matter.

“The matter is pending in court; it is for the state because this is a criminal matter,” he said. “Last Wednesday, we were in court, and the matter was adjourned to the 9th of October. All that we are waiting for is for the processes to be sped up.”

He acknowledged that delays are a common challenge within the judicial system but expressed hope for a faster resolution.

“You cannot put any blame on anybody because of the nature of our judicial system. It has always been slow,” Duku added.

Following the tragedy, Nsoatreman FC withdrew from the competition, highlighting the seriousness of the incident.

His comments come in the wake of a chaotic incident during Nations FC’s Matchday 33 clash against Basake Holy Stars on Sunday at the Ampain AAK II Sports Arena in Ayinase.

The match was abruptly halted when Nations FC players and officials stormed the pitch in protest after the referee awarded a second controversial penalty to the home side.

The decision sparked tensions, prompting the visitors to boycott the remainder of the game.

Speaking to Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Dr. Kyei explained the rationale behind their actions and drew a direct link between Sunday’s incident and the unfortunate events in Nsoatre earlier this year, where Nana Pooley lost his life during a football-related dispute.

“We have not learned anything from what happened in Nsoatre with regards to the death of Nana Pooley,” Dr. Kyei said.

“I believe it was good for me to be at Ayinase, but as a country, we have not learned anything from what happened,” he added.

Despite the turmoil, Nations FC remain at the top of the Ghana Premier League table with 60 points, with just one game left to conclude the 2024/25 season.

The tragic incident occurred in February during a Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko at the Nana Kronmansah Park.

Speaking at the 24th anniversary commemoration of the May 9 Stadium Disaster held at the Accra Sports Stadium, Mr. Okraku emphasized the importance of safeguarding football supporters and upholding the sport’s unifying spirit.

“The loss of Pooley is a painful reminder that we still have work to do in protecting the lives of supporters and preserving the sanctity of the game,” he said.

“I strongly urge the Ghana Police Service to pursue justice swiftly and ensure those responsible for his untimely death are held accountable,” he added.

The GFA President also reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to eliminating hooliganism and violence in Ghanaian football.

While acknowledging progress in infrastructure and governance, he stressed that ensuring justice is essential to rebuilding public trust.

The solemn event was attended by the Minister of Youth and Sports, members of the GFA Executive Council, officials from Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, the Director-General of the National Sports Authority, and families of the May 9 victims.

The late Nana Pooley, as he was affectionately called, was laid to rest last weekend after being fatally stabbed at Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre during a Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC.

Despite the emotional weight, Kotoko returned to action with a 2-0 victory over Legon Cities in their Matchday 23 clash at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.

Speaking after the game, Dr. Ogum reflected on the emotional toll of Frimpong’s passing.

“It has not been easy if you look at how associated we all are with Pooley,” he said.

“It has not been easy trying to overcome his death. Sometimes, it looks like it’s a dream, but it’s a reality.

“It was very difficult to overcome. If you look at the body language of the players, it wasn’t that pleasant—it was a sad body language they exhibited throughout.

“I felt it so much today when we were doing the minute’s silence… so may he rest in peace,” he added.

With this victory, Kotoko now leads the league table with 37 points.

The Porcupine Warriors will next face defending champions FC Samartex in their Matchday 24 encounter at the Dr. Nsenkyire Sports Complex.

🚨Breaking: 🚨

Update on Francis Yaw Frimpong’s murder case.

The police have in their custody one GRACE SIAW, a girlfriend of DANIEL FEBIRI a.k.a BRAIMA a..k.a ASHI a.k.a Rasta who concealed the suspect between 4th & 17th Feb and assisted him to run to Senegal through Cote… pic.twitter.com/hBCPeagViD

— Asante Kotoko SC – 2X CAF CL Winners🥇 (@AsanteKotoko_SC) March 3, 2025

Pooley was fatally stabbed by unidentified attackers during the Matchday 19 fixture between Nsoatreman and Kotoko at the Nana Kronmansah Park.

Following the incident, the Ghana Premier League was temporarily suspended, with Asante Kotoko demanding justice and threatening to withdraw from active competition until the case was resolved.

Police investigations have since identified a suspect, Brimah, as the alleged perpetrator, though he remains on the run.

In a statement released on Monday, Nsoatreman FC reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that those truly responsible are held accountable.

“Life is precious and it is condemnable when life like that of Francis Yaw Frimpong (Nana Pooley) is lost in such a manner,” Nsoatreman said in a statement released.

“It is important to state on record that since the said death, management has been assisting the police with investigating the circumstances of the death, and in bringing to justice the person(s) who are accomplice in the death of Nana Pooley.

“It is the believe of management that the real culprits will be brought to book and justice served.”

Full statement below

Meanwhile, Asante Kotoko has confirmed that the team will return to active football following the final burial of Nana Pooley, scheduled for March 6.

The devoted Asante Kotoko supporter was fatally stabbed during the Matchday 19 fixture between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko at Nana Kronmansah Park.

In response, the Ghana Premier League was suspended, with Kotoko vowing not to return to competition until justice is served.

During his first meeting with Kotoko’s leadership since the tragic incident, Mr. Okraku called on eyewitnesses to assist in the pursuit of justice.

“When that tragic act occurred in Nsoatre, there was someone present with the person who took Nana Pooley’s life. That person must be honest with football and reveal the killer’s identity. It’s a painful moment, but also an opportunity to make a positive impact on our game,” he said.

Acknowledging the current difficulties facing Ghanaian football, Okraku expressed confidence in overcoming the challenges.

“I have always said that the journey to transform our football is tough and rough, and right now, we are facing one of our toughest moments. But we will get through it,” he added.

Meanwhile, the FA Cup Round of 16 matches will proceed as scheduled this weekend, though Asante Kotoko has opted out.

Francis Frimpong, also known as “Nana Pooley,” was fatally stabbed during the Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman and Asante Kotoko on February 5 at the Nana Kronmansah Park.

Addressing the media after meeting with Asante Kotoko’s leadership, Okraku expressed his outrage over the incident, calling it completely unacceptable.

“When the incident [Nana Pooley’s death] happened, I was out of the jurisdiction, not to campaign for a slot on the CAF Executive Committee, but to work for the FA and attend to my medical needs,” he said.

“We have lost a dedicated and passionate soul, which is irreplaceable, and this is not acceptable,” he added.

In remembrance of Nana Pooley, Asante Kotoko held a one-week memorial over the weekend, attended by club management, players, and supporters.

Meanwhile, the team resumed training on Wednesday at their Adako Jachie facility.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/gfa-president-kurt-okraku-addresses-absence-after-pooleys-death/ Fri, 21 Feb 2025 05:02:16 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2506930 President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku, has clarified his absence following the tragic death of Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley.

Pooley tragically lost his life at Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre during a Matchday 19 fixture between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko.

Okraku faced widespread criticism for his absence in the aftermath of the incident, with some reports suggesting that he was campaigning for a seat on the CAF Executive Council. However, GFA Executive Council member Nana Sarfo Oduro later confirmed that Okraku had been out of the country due to health reasons.

Speaking to the media after a meeting with Asante Kotoko in Kumasi, Okraku vehemently denied the political campaign claims, explaining that his trip was for official GFA duties and medical treatment.

“When the Nsoatre incident happened, I was out of the country, not for a CAF slot campaign, but to work for the FA and seek medical attention. However, every action taken by the FA was under my directive, and we responded swiftly to the situation,” he clarified.

Okraku also appealed for anyone with information on Pooley’s killer to step forward and assist in the pursuit of justice.

“We all have a role to play. It’s unacceptable for a single life to be lost. Someone witnessed what happened in Nsoatre, and that person must be honest enough to reveal the truth. It’s a painful moment, but also an opportunity to make a positive impact on Ghana football. The journey to reform our game is tough, but we will get there,” Okraku stated.

Following Pooley’s death, the Ghana Premier League was temporarily suspended, but it is set to resume on March 1. The FA Cup Round of 16 fixtures will proceed this weekend, excluding Asante Kotoko.

Frimpong, widely known as Nana Pooley, tragically lost his life during Kotoko’s Matchday 19 clash against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre, leading to the temporary suspension of the league.

Despite the setback, Kotoko resumed training on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Adako Jachie training grounds.

Addressing the team, Ogum urged his players to channel their grief into motivation on the field.

“It’s unfortunate, but we must honour him by putting our best into every training session and match. We owe it to him, and I believe we are ready to do that,” he said.

He stressed that while the loss is heartbreaking, the most meaningful tribute would be to fight for success in Frimpong’s memory.

“It won’t be easy to move on, but the best way we can truly honour him is by working hard, winning games, and ultimately securing the league title in his memory. Let’s stay united, stay focused, and get the results,” he added.

Kotoko is set to decide on Monday, February 24, 2025, whether to continue their participation in the Ghana Premier League.

Pooley lost his life after being stabbed at Nana Kronmansah Park during a Matchday 19 clash between Nsoatreman FC and Kotoko.

On Monday, Asante Kotoko’s Communications Director, Sarfo Duku, identified a man named Brimah as the alleged perpetrator. The suspect is currently on the run, with the Ghana Police Service actively working to track him down.

In a strong stance against hooliganism, Bechem United announced a reward for any information leading to the suspect’s arrest.

“Bechem United FC takes bold stand against hooliganism, offers GHC100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the murderer of late Asante Kotoko fan Francis Yaw Frimpong (Nana Pooley),” the club stated.

Statement below:

Following the tragic incident, the Ghana Premier League has been temporarily suspended. However, the FA Cup Round of 16 matches are set to proceed this weekend across the country.

Meanwhile, Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku is expected to visit Asante Kotoko on Thursday as part of ongoing engagements regarding Pooley’s passing.

However, presiding judge Eric Daning ordered Baffour-Awuah, who is on GH¢500,000 bail, to report to the Police once a week, rather than thrice a week as initially required.

Baffour-Awuah, who also owns Nsoatreman FC, is one of eight suspects standing trial for the gruesome murder of Francis Frimpong, a Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC supporter popularly known as ‘Pooley.’

During the hearing, the court also reviewed the bail conditions for suspects Joseph Kyeremeh, Elizabeth Akosua Ntiwaa, and Yaa Asantewaa, who are also accused of “abetment to commit crime, to wit murder.” These suspects will now report to the Police once a week and are free to leave or travel outside the Sunyani Municipality.

The suspects are scheduled to reappear in court on March 10, 2025.

Meanwhile, three other suspects, Isaac Fosu, Augustine Yeboah, and Yaw Koshy, who are charged with murder, were denied bail and will remain in custody until their next appearance on March 3, 2025.

Briamer, another suspect charged with murder, is still on the run, while Agyemang Duah Owusu, a Police inspector charged with murder, was granted GH¢300,000 bail with two sureties. The court ordered Owusu to report to the Police every day and submit his passport to the court registry within three days.

The tragic incident occurred on Sunday, February 2, 2025, when ‘Pooley’ was stabbed to death during a match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC at the Nsoatre Professor Amoah Koromansah II stadium in the Ghana Premier League.

Pooley was tragically killed on February 2, 2025, during a Matchday 19 fixture of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League between Nsoatreman FC and Kotoko at Nana Koronamansah Park.

Speaking to the media after attending court proceedings on Monday, February 17, 2025, Duku confirmed that Brimah, who remains on the run, was the perpetrator.

“Now it means that one person is still at large; he’s called Brimah. The police, per their facts, said that he actually stabbed the deceased person to death,” Sarfo Duku said.

“In fact, according to the police, and I’m referring to their facts, which are now a public document, all the accused persons have admitted that it was that guy called Brimah, who is now at large, that stabbed Pooley to death,” he added.

Meanwhile, seven individuals, including the owner of Nsoatreman FC, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, have been arrested in connection with the case.

A one-week observation in memory of Nana Pooley was held on Sunday in Kumasi.

In response to the tragic incident and growing concerns over hooliganism, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has introduced stricter matchday protocols, which all clubs are required to adhere to.

The late member of Asante Kotoko’s Supporters’ Communication Team was mourned with heavy hearts following his tragic death during a league match.

The atmosphere was somber as family members sat in deep grief, their eyes clouded with tears.

The arrival of his widow sparked a heart-wrenching moment, as she broke down, unable to contain the pain of losing her beloved husband.

The sight of Pooley’s young son collapsing in tears left many mourners shaken.

His mother, equally devastated, wept uncontrollably, mourning the unbearable loss of her son, whose passion for the Porcupine Warriors was known across football circles.

Nana Pooley met his untimely death after being fatally stabbed by unidentified individuals during Asante Kotoko’s Ghana Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC in Nsoatre on Sunday.

The club confirmed in a statement that the incident occurred during an altercation in the second half of the match.

He was rushed to the Sunyani Regional Hospital with stab wound to the chest but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

As mourners consoled one another at the event, they reiterated the need for justice for Nana Pooley.

The family, along with Kotoko’s supporters, urged the police to expedite investigations and bring the perpetrators to book.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/otumfuo-demands-swift-justice-for-late-asante-kotoko-fan/ Sat, 15 Feb 2025 18:45:29 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2504860 Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has called for the immediate arrest of those responsible for the killing of Asante Kotoko supporter, Francis Frimpong, also known as Nana Pooley.

The tragic incident occurred at the Nana Kronmansah Park during the Matchday 19 fixture between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko.

So far, seven individuals, including Nsoatreman FC owner and former Labour and Employment Minister, Ignatius Baffour Awuah, have been arrested in connection with the case.

During a visit to the Manhyia Palace on Friday, February 14, Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams was urged by Otumfuo to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.

“The incident is so worrying. Why should this happen in the first place?” Otumfuo questioned. “A family has lost a young and vibrant man due to someone’s wickedness. No one should lose his life because of a game.”

He emphasized that regardless of where the crime took place, the culprit must be identified and apprehended to uphold the rule of law.

“You premeditate to kill an individual because of a statement he made about causing your relegation? No one should put such authority in his hands to commit such a crime.

“This shouldn’t have happened. Institute a thorough investigation to arrest the perpetrator. Why hasn’t he been arrested until now? He is still around and yet the law enforcement agencies haven’t gotten him. Arrest him to deter others,” he added.

In response to rising concerns over hooliganism at football matches, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has introduced new matchday safety protocols, which all clubs are required to follow.

Nana Pooley lost his life at Nana Kronmansah Park during a Matchday 19 fixture between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko.

In an interview with Starr FM, Kofi Adams, who is also the Member of Parliament for Buem, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.

“We will not protect anyone involved in this crime—justice must be served,” Adams declared.

He commended Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare for his swift involvement in the case and expressed confidence in the ongoing investigations.

“So far, I’m impressed with the interest the IGP has personally shown in this matter,” he noted. “We are not going to leave this case at just public comments and initial actions. The police have made arrests, and investigations and prosecutions are ongoing.”

In response to the tragic incident, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) temporarily suspended league matches and engaged all 18 Premier League clubs in discussions to improve security and prevent similar tragedies.

As of now, seven individuals have been arrested in connection with the case, including Nsoatreman FC financier and former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, Ignatius Baffour-Awuah.

A Sunyani District Court has placed him under a movement restriction order as investigations continue.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/kweku-ayiah-criticises-dcop-lydia-donkors-comments-on-kotoko-fans-death/ Wed, 12 Feb 2025 11:51:42 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2503621 Former Executive Council Member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Lawyer Kweku Ayiah, has expressed his disappointment over remarks made by DCOP Lydia Donkor regarding the tragic death of Asante Kotoko fan, Francis Frimpong.

Frimpong, a passionate Kotoko supporter, was fatally stabbed by unidentified assailants at the Nana Kronmansah Park during the Matchday 19 fixture between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko.

Following a visit to the match venue, DCOP Lydia Donkor, who also serves as the Chairperson of the GFA’s Safety and Security Committee, stated in an interview with Joy Sports that Frimpong’s stabbing “did not happen in the stadium.”

Her comments have since been perceived as an attempt to absolve the police on duty that day, drawing criticism from Kotoko supporters.

Speaking to Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Lawyer Kweku Ayiah expressed reservations about Donkor’s statement.

“I would have wished she [Lydia Donkor] had not spoken about the incident,” he said.

“Having said that, her position is not just for Asante Kotoko or Hearts; it is for all clubs, a position of trust. Safety is very key, and I will just urge that when speaking about it, one should be circumspect.

“I understand that Kotoko are in pain, but we urge them to remain calm and see how things unfold,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of Asante Kotoko’s Interim Management Committee, Nana Apinkrah, has stated that the club no longer wants DCOP Lydia Donkor involved in the case.

In response to the tragic event, the Ghana FA suspended league matches and held discussions with all 18 Premier League clubs on measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Authorities have since made seven arrests, including Nsoatreman FC bankroller and former Employment and Labour Relations Minister, Ignatius Baffour-Awuah.

A District Court in Sunyani has placed him under a movement restriction order as investigations continue.

READ ALSO

• Black Stars can still qualify for 2026 World Cup – Former GFA chief
• Sports Minister opposes bid to extend GFA presidency

Pooley was fatally stabbed during Kotoko’s Matchday 19 clash against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Koromansah II Park in Nsoatre last week.

In response to the incident, the GFA has charged six Nsoatreman FC players with misconduct and unsporting behaviour. Additionally, the club’s home venue has been indefinitely suspended.

However, Nana Apinkra has expressed deep frustration over what he describes as the GFA’s inadequate response to the situation.

“You [GFA] are only issuing fines, to the extent you are fining people who were not even involved. It’s as if you don’t care,” Apinkra told the Ghana FA in a meeting.

“We are angry because it’s painful. It’s very painful.

“I was expecting that by this time the GFA would have probed into the whole situation including Ignatius Baffour-Awuah who incited the fans against us,” he added.

The tragic incident prompted the suspension of league matches, with the GFA meeting representatives from all 18 Premier League clubs to discuss measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Meanwhile, seven people have been arrested in connection with Pooley’s death, including Nsoatreman FC’s financier, Ignatius Baffour-Awuah.

The former Employment and Labour Relations Minister has been placed under a movement restriction order by District Court “B” in Sunyani.

READ ALSO

• Why Kurt Okraku is silent on Nana Pooley’s death – GFA ExCo member explains
• Football won’t resume until concerns are addressed – IMC warns GFA

🚨NOTICE🚨

The OmanHene of Kukuom Traditional Council, Osahene Nana Kwaku Aterkyi II and his family, after a successful meeting with management, have granted permission for the club to organize the one-week celebration of our late brother, Francis Yaw Frimpong (NANA POOLEY) to… pic.twitter.com/q5QFmjCRdx

— Asante Kotoko SC – 2X CAF CL Winners🥇 (@AsanteKotoko_SC) February 10, 2025

Nana Pooley was stabbed on February 2, 2025, at Nana Kromansah Park in Twumasikrom near Nsoatre, Bono Region, during a Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko.

Isaac Fosu, 28; Yeboah Augustine, 35; Elizabeth Akosua Ntiwa (Akosua Black Chinese), 37; and Yaa Asantewaa, 37, were charged with abetment of crime to wit; murder, contrary to Sections 20(1) and 46 of the Criminal Offences Act of 1960 (Act 29).

Two others, Briamah (Rasta) and Yaw Koshy, are still at large and face the same charges, with Briamah facing an additional murder charge, contrary to Section 46 of the Criminal Offences Act of 1960 (Act 29).

The four accused were denied bail on Friday, February 7, 2025. According to Her Honour Akua Addae Adoma, the Fiapre Circuit Court lacks jurisdiction since the case involves a felony.

The suspects were ordered to remain in police custody and reappear on Monday, February 10, 2025, at 9 a.m.

However, the prosecutor, Inspector Alexander Oppong, withdrew the charges against the accused persons, leading Her Honour Akua Addae Adoma to strike the case out as withdrawn.

Meanwhile, the prosecution team at the Bono Regional Police Headquarters is preparing to refile the case at the Sunyani District Court.

The Ghana Police Service has so far arrested seven people, with two, including Nsoatreman FC owner and former Sunyani West MP Ignatius Baffour Awuah, granted bail to reappear on February 17, 2025.

READ ALSO

• Nana Pooley’s stabbing happened outside the stadium – DCOP Lydia Donkor
• Asante Kotoko holds vigil for slain fan Nana Pooley [Photos]

The Asante Kotoko fan lost his life in a tragic incident during the Porcupine Warriors’ defeat to Nsoatreman at the Nana Koromansah II Stadium on matchday 19 of the Ghana Premier League.

Eyewitness accounts since the incident suggested that the passionate fan was stabbed at the stadium.

However, DCOP Donkor, who is leading the investigation, has revealed that the stabbing did not occur at the match venue.

“This unfortunate incident [the fan’s stabbing] didn’t happen inside the stadium. It happened outside, and he was picked up by a tricycle and dropped at that section of the stadium,” she said on JoySports Link on Saturday, February 8.

“I have to clarify this because there are all kinds of comments about how the police allowed someone to enter the stadium with a knife. Let me emphasize that the police have a strict search regime.

“At least, that is something I discuss with my various commanders, and we insist on it. There’s a strict search regime. When you’re coming into the stadium, we search everybody entering.”

DCOP Donkor also urged clubs and individuals to report threats to the police, stating that authorities were not informed of any dangers concerning Nana Pooley.

“The best advice I can give now is that if he had any genuine concerns [about threats to his life], he could have approached the police or informed someone in the area so that the police would be aware,” she continued.

“We had to conduct investigations. We’ve been to the scene, gathered our evidence, and reviewed everything.”

So far, the Ghana Police Service has arrested six people in connection with the stabbing, with two, including former Sunyani West MP Ignatius Baffour Awuah, being granted bail.

ALSO READ:

• Asante Kotoko to hold vigil for late supporter Nana Pooley

• Football community must see ‘Nana Pooley’ death as a crime – IGP Dampare

Nana Pooley tragically lost his life after being stabbed by unidentified assailants during Kotoko’s Matchday 19 clash against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre last Sunday.

His murder has led to the arrest of six individuals, including the owner of Nsoatreman FC, Ignatius Baffour Awuah.

The vigil, held at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday, was attended by key figures of the club, including members of the Interim Management Committee (IMC) — Nana Apinkra Akwesi Awuah, Kwesi Appiah, and head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum.

The entire playing squad and numerous supporters also joined the event, with some grieving fans visibly emotional, chanting “Justice for Pooley.”

In response to the tragic incident, Asante Kotoko has announced its withdrawal from all football activities until justice is served.

Pooley tragically lost his life after being fatally stabbed by unknown attackers during Asante Kotoko’s Matchday 19 clash against Nsoatreman FC at Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre.

The vigil is scheduled for Sunday, February 9, 2025, at Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. It will serve as both a tribute to Pooley’s life and a continued call for justice following his untimely death.

Asante Kotoko has extended an open invitation to all supporters, football lovers, and the general public to take part in this solemn event.

“We encourage all attendees to bring candles as we unite to honour our departed brother,” the club’s management stated in an official release.

The management of Asante Kotoko SC and the leadership of it’s supporters are calling on the various supporter groups, football enthusiasts and the public to join in observing a night of vigil in solidarity with our departed brother, Francis Yaw Frimpong (POOLEY), as we continue… pic.twitter.com/pEc4WrqX2g

— Asante Kotoko SC – 2X CAF CL Winners🥇 (@AsanteKotoko_SC) February 8, 2025

Beyond remembering Pooley, the vigil is also part of a larger movement by the club and its supporters to push for improvements in safety and security at football venues across Ghana.

This initiative highlights the deep sense of unity within the Asante Kotoko family, as they stand together to demand accountability and honour a life lost too soon.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has arrested six individuals in connection with Pooley’s murder, including the owner of Nsoatreman FC, Ignatius Baffour Awuah.

Nana Pooley was fatally stabbed by unknown assailants during the Matchday 19 clash between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko at Nana Kronmansah Park on Sunday. The match had already been marred by on-field altercations involving players and officials.

In response to the incident, the Ghana Police Service has arrested five individuals, including Ignatius Baffour Awuah, the owner of Nsoatreman FC.

Speaking at a meeting with the leadership of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) on Wednesday at the Police Headquarters, Dampare called for collective action against hooliganism in football.

“We urge the football fraternity to support us [Ghana Police] in this endeavor to bring the culprits to book.

“The football family must see this as a crime being investigated, and nothing else.

“This will help all those involved to have closure. We must use this tragic event to learn the relevant lessons and come out with a blueprint to ensure football continues to be a game people enjoy, and not one where people lose their lives,” he said.

In response to growing concerns over violence at football venues, the GFA has scheduled an emergency meeting today with all Premier League clubs to discuss measures to curb hooliganism in the sport.

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The court, presided over by Eric Daning, remanded Owusu in connection with the tragic death of Francis Frimpong, a fervent supporter of the Kumasi Asante Kotoko Football Club (FC).

The deceased was stabbed to death on Sunday, February 2, 2025, during a match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC at the Nsoatre Professor Amoah Koromansah II Stadium, as part of match 19 of the Ghana Premier League.

Owusu and two other suspects, including Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, 58, the owner and financier of Nsoatreman FC, and Joseph Kyeremeh, popularly known as ‘Santos’ in the football fraternity, appeared before the court on Tuesday, February 4, 2025.

They are scheduled to reappear on Monday, February 17, 2025.

When the case was heard, the police prosecutor, Inspector Alexander Oppong, informed the court that the suspects were involved in the murder of the deceased.

He added that a search conducted in Owusu’s room led to the retrieval of two dresses with suspected bloodstains and an MP 23 pistol with 15 rounds of ammunition.

After preliminary investigations, Baffour-Awuah, a former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, and Kyeremeh were charged with “abetment to commit crime, to wit murder,” under Sections 20(1) and 46 of the Criminal Offenses Act 1960 (Act 29).

The court granted them GH₵500,000 bail each with three sureties, one of whom must be justified.

As part of his bail conditions, Baffour-Awuah, also a former Member of Parliament for the Sunyani West Constituency, is prohibited from leaving or traveling outside the Sunyani Municipality without judicial approval.

They were also ordered to submit their passports to the court registry and report to the police daily until the next adjournment date.

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The incident happened during their Ghana Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC on Sunday in Nsoatre.

The Porcupine Warriors were visiting Nana Kronmansah Park for the Matchday 19 clash.

The Club in a statement confirmed that Nana Pooley was fatally stabbed following an altercation during the game’s second half.

Despite being rushed to the Sunyani Regional Hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival, having suffered multiple chest wounds.

Asante Kotoko has condemned the violent episode that marred the match, especially given the team’s loss to the defending FA Cup champions.

The match ended 1-0 in favour of Nsoatreman FC but was marred by chaos, with players from both teams clashing during the game, leading the referee to issue four red cards.

The situation escalated after the final whistle, with violent confrontations breaking out between the fans.

Full statement below: