The Ghana Police Service has confirmed the initiation of a major investigation into the tragic death of Ransford Owusu, a 16-year-old junior footballer with Siano Soccer Academy in Accra.
The probe has been heightened due to the alarming allegation that the boy was sexually abused by his coach before his death.
The case, which combines elements of sexual assault, homicide, and alleged negligence, has been transferred to the specialised Homicide Unit of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) Headquarters in Accra, reflecting the gravity of the accusations.
According to a detailed statement released by the Ghana Police Service Director-General of Public Affairs, DCOP Grace Ansah-Akrofi, on November 8, the investigation was triggered by a report filed by the deceased’s mother, Ama Asantewaa, at the Amasaman Police Station.
- Date of Death: Owusu fell ill and died on February 28, 2025.
- The Allegation: Owusu’s mother alleged that before his passing, the 16-year-old confided in her that his coach, identified as Anyass Ibrahim, had sexually assaulted him.
The suspect, coach Anyass Ibrahim, was officially arrested on November 4, 2025, to assist the CID with the investigation.
He was interrogated, provided an official statement to the Police, and was subsequently granted bail. As part of his bail conditions, the suspect is required to report regularly to the CID Headquarters pending the conclusion of the inquiry.
A significant element of the ongoing investigation centres on the victim’s medical history immediately preceding his death.
The police revealed they received medical documents from Ama Asantewaa indicating that Ransford Owusu had been treated for “liver and kidney-related conditions” prior to his death.
These treatments were reportedly administered at two major health institutions in the Ashanti Region:
- Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi.
- Maternal and Child Health Hospital (also in Kumasi).
Police emphasise that securing the official, comprehensive medical records is now the most critical step to confirming the cause of death and determining any potential link to the alleged abuse.
The investigation has faced a delay, as initial police requests for the official medical reports from the two hospitals were reportedly declined.
In response to this administrative bottleneck, the Ghana Police Service has taken a crucial legal step:
- Court Order Secured: The service has secured a court order to compel KATH and the Maternal and Child Health Hospital to immediately release the complete medical records and autopsy reports related to the deceased.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of the young footballer and the grave allegations against his coach remains actively underway at the Homicide Unit of the CID Headquarters.
