The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) has launched an investigation into the death of a 16-year-old footballer who was allegedly sexually abused by his coach.
Preliminary investigations by the ministry revealed that the victim, Ransford Owusu Ansah, was subjected to sexual abuse over a period of time without his mother’s knowledge.
Following the victim’s death, Siano Soccer Academy suspended the coach and initiated a probe into the case.
How a 16-year-old footballer died after alleged sexual abuse by his coach
“Preliminary reports indicate that the victim, Ransford Owusu Ansah, had been under the care of the coach for the past three years. Unknown to his mother, he had allegedly been subjected to sexual abuse during that period. According to records, the victim had been receiving medical care since December 2024 and was later admitted to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for treatment but unfortunately passed away.
“The management of Siano Soccer Academy has suspended the coach and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is served. We empathise deeply with the bereaved family. The ministry emphasises that crime has no expiration and remains committed to pursuing justice for the victim and his family,” the statement released on November 7, 2025, read.
The ministry further indicated that it has held extensive conversations with the Ghana Football Association to strengthen child protection laws.
They also vowed to pursue the matter seriously through a formal investigation and ensure that justice is served and the perpetrator held accountable.
“When she assumed office in February 2025, the Minister for Gender, Children, and Social Protection engaged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) on the matter to ensure accountability and stronger child protection mechanisms within the football sector. Following this engagement, Siano Soccer Academy, in addition to suspending the coach, temporarily closed the facility pending investigations.
“Thereafter, the ministry, through its Orange Support Center (OSC) under the Domestic Violence Secretariat, conducted investigations with the Amasaman DOVVSU and later referred the matter to the Greater Accra Regional DOVVSU,” the statement added.
SB/JE
Read the full statement below:
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