Kotoko shooting saga: GFA condemns attack; calls for police probe

The Ghana Football Association has expressed its disappointment with the incidents at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi during the Ghana Premier League match between Asante Kotoko and Berekum Chelsea on Sunday, 12 January 2020.

The GFA said it is saddened by reports of injuries to football fans and the hospitalisation of a fan, following an alleged gun shooting incident.

“Our profound sympathy goes to the injured, and we pray for speedy recovery,” a statement from the FA said.

The GFA noted that takes a dim view of violence at all league centres across the country and totally condemns what may have precipitated the “unfortunate” development at the Baba Yara Stadium.

“While we conduct our own inquest from our designated matchday officials to find out the exact cause of the unfortunate incidents, we call on the Police Service to also conduct thorough investigation, especially on the alleged shooting incident,” the statement said.

The GFA said it has zero tolerance for violence, and in accordance with its regulations, will deal ruthlessly with any official or club that is found to have breached the GFA Regulations and Disciplinary Code.

The Violence

Angry Kotoko supporters threw projectiles on the field as they watch they team go down to Berekum Chelsea.

The incident halted the Premier League match for several minutes.

The supporters were furious over decisions by the match official.

Some also tried to force a gate to the pitch open before security officials intervened.

In the course of the milee the police fired their guns to disperse the crowd but one fan was hit by a stray bullet.

Kotoko in an official statement said: "The victim of this afternoon's shooting incident at the Baba Yara Stadium is currently stable and responding to treatment at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Kumasi.

"We are following the development and would be updating our followers."