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GFA President Kurt Okraku Calls on Ghana Police to Deliver Justice for Pooley’s Death
President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, has made a passionate appeal to the Ghana Police Service to intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators behind the tragic death of Asante Kotoko supporter, Pooley, to justice.
Speaking during the commemoration of the 24th anniversary of the May 9 Stadium Disaster at the Accra Sports Stadium, the GFA President reminded the nation of the need to ensure that football remains a safe and unifying force for all.
“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,” said Mr. Okraku.
He called on the Police, saying “I strongly urge the Ghana Police Service to pursue justice swiftly and ensure those responsible for his untimely death are held accountable.”
Pooley, a devoted fan of Kumasi Asante Kotoko, was reportedly murdered during a league match incident at Nsoatre—a tragedy that sent shockwaves through the football community.
The GFA President emphasized that the Association is committed to working with all relevant stakeholders to eliminate hooliganism and violence at football venues across the country.
He stated that while strides have been made in improving infrastructure and enforcing regulations, full justice for victims is a critical part of restoring public confidence in the sport.
Mr. Simeon-Okraku’s remarks came in the presence of leading football stakeholders, including the Sports Minister, members of the GFA Executive Council, representatives from Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, the Director-General of the National Sports Authority, and family members of victims of the May 9 Disaster.
The call for justice for Pooley comes at a time when the football community continues to reflect on past tragedies like the May 9 Disaster, with a collective commitment to the mantra: “Never Again.”
President John Dramani Mahama has held bilateral talks with the President of South Korea, Lee Jae Myung, reaffirming the strong ties and shared values that continue to define relations between Ghana and South Korea.
During the discussions, President Mahama highlighted the historic connection between the two nations, noting their common commitment to democracy, human rights, and a shared historical experience.
He emphasised the opportunities for deeper cooperation, stating that Ghana’s rich natural and human resources, combined with Korea’s technological expertise and innovation, present a strong foundation for a mutually beneficial partnership.
The President also underscored Ghana’s strategic role within the African market through the African Continental Free Trade Area, whose secretariat is headquartered in Accra, positioning the country as a gateway for production and exports into a market of over 1.4 billion people.
President Lee Jae Myung, in his remarks, described Ghana as a country that holds a special place in the hearts of many Koreans, highlighting decades of cooperation in areas such as maritime security, trade, and agriculture.
He also reflected on the longstanding cultural and economic connection symbolised by the popular “Ghana” chocolate brand made from Ghanaian cocoa, which has been enjoyed in Korea for over five decades.
Both leaders expressed optimism about expanding people-to-people exchanges, cultural engagement, and economic collaboration, with President Lee noting that President Mahama’s visit provides a timely opportunity to deepen practical cooperation that will directly benefit the citizens of both nations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been informed by the relevant authorities in the United Arab Emirates that two Ghanaian nationals sustained injuries following a drone incident in the vicinity of Dubai International Airport earlier today, March 11, 2026.
Against this backdrop, the Government of Ghana has strongly condemned any act that endangers civilian lives and critical infrastructure.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, March 11, such incidents pose serious risks to public safety and underscore the importance of ensuring the protection of civilians and vital international transport hubs.
Ghana’s Ambassador in the United Arab Emirates has led a delegation of the Embassy in Abu Dhabi and Consulate in Dubai to visit the two injured Ghanaians in hospital.
Their injuries are not critical and are expected to fully recover soon.
“We therefore urge calm as we continue to extend consular assistance and collaborate closely with host authorities,” the statement added.
The Ministry has revealed that they are closely monitoring the situation and will continue to engage with the appropriate authorities as required.
The Government of Ghana expresses its concern over the incident and conveys its thoughts to the injured individuals and their families.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterates the Government of Ghana’s commitment to the protection and welfare of Ghanaian citizens wherever they may be.
The Government of Ghana is actively supporting ongoing consultations within the UN to pass a resolution seeking a cessation of hostilities.
According to the Ministry they are offering the necessary leadership and coordination with Ghana’s diplomatic Missions and will provide updates on the matter as and when the need arises.
Government has reiterated its call for Nationals in the Gulf region to always exercise heightened vigilance and comply with directives from Ghanaian Embassies and local authorities.
