Asante Kotoko condemns violence at Nsoatreman, calls for action

Asante Kotoko SC has strongly condemned the violent incidents that marred their Ghana Premier League Matchweek 19 clash against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Koramansah Park.

The club has called for urgent action from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) after their players, officials, and supporters were subjected to severe hostility and attacks during and after the match.

In an official statement, Asante Kotoko revealed that their team faced aggression from sections of the home crowd from the moment they arrived at the stadium.

The situation escalated during the game, with missiles being thrown at their bench multiple times, creating an unsafe environment for players and officials.

The violence reached a disturbing level when the club’s Head of Media suffered a serious ear injury after being struck by an object.

Additionally, Asante Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Mohammed Camara, was physically attacked by pitch invaders while also being targeted with missiles.

Tragically, the violence extended beyond the playing field, as reports indicate that media personnel and traveling supporters from Kumasi were also assaulted.

The most devastating incident occurred when a Kotoko supporter was stabbed in the chaos and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

“This senseless loss of life is devastating, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Asante Kotoko fraternity,” the club’s statement read.

Asante Kotoko also revealed that valuable club equipment, including laptops and communication devices used by the technical team, was destroyed in the mayhem.

Despite these setbacks, the team continued and completed the match, demonstrating their commitment to fair competition.

However, the club has expressed deep concern over the persistence of hooliganism in Ghanaian football and has urged the GFA to take immediate action against those responsible.

“Asante Kotoko will fully cooperate with the Ghana Football Association in any investigations and expects swift and firm action to be taken. Football must be played in a secure and fair environment, and these acts of violence must not be tolerated,” the statement emphasized.

The club is now calling on all stakeholders, including the GFA, security agencies, and club administrators, to implement stronger security measures at league venues to ensure the safety of players, officials, and supporters.

This latest incident raises renewed concerns about fan violence in Ghanaian football, with many urging authorities to take decisive steps to prevent further tragedies.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith