A young soccer player was killed when gunmen opened fire on his team bus in a horrific armed robbery in Ghana. Berekum Chelsea winger Dominic Frimpong was shot in the head and killed in an ambush following a top-flight match against FC Samartex. The bus was traveling on the Bibiani-Goaso road when it was blocked by a group of gun-wielding robbers.
They unleashed a barrage of bullets as terrified players and staff fled for their lives and jumped into nearby trees and bushes. Frimpong was shot in the head and died after being taken to hospital, but several others are still believed to be missing. The 20-year-old winger has been one of the team’s bright spots since the start of the season, scoring two goals in 11 appearances.
“As the driver tried to reverse, masked men welding guns and assault rifles began firing at the bus. The players and staff ran into nearby bushes for cover.
“We would like to thank the police patrols for their quick response, the sports journalists who quickly cleared the information, the town of Ashilles for providing temporary shelter for the players, and the Viviani Gold Star officials for their tremendous support.
“We would also like to thank all well-wishers and, last but not least, the President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for his quick response during this difficult time.”
The shocking incident shocked the nation and left the country’s football association in a state of “deep shock and deep sadness.”
“This tragic incident is not only a huge loss for Berekum Chelsea, but also for Ghanaian football as a whole. Dominic is a promising young talent whose dedication and passion exemplified the spirit of our league,” the GFA said in a statement.
“The GFA is in constant contact with the club and the relevant authorities, including the Ghana Police Service, as investigations into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate incident continue. We urge all necessary steps to be taken to ensure justice is served.”
“Furthermore, the GFA will work with key stakeholders to review and strengthen safety arrangements for clubs traveling to domestic competitions to prevent such tragic incidents from occurring in the future.
“We call on the entire football world to unite in support of Berekum Chelsea and the bereaved family at this moment of sadness. May the soul of Dominic Frimpong rest in complete peace.”
The perpetrator remains at large, while searches continue for the missing players who were scattered during the horrific ordeal.
