The Ashanti Regional Police Command has arrested two foreign nationals in connection with the alleged kidnapping and murder of Senegalese goalkeeper Cheikh Toure in Ghana.
The suspects, identified as 32-year-old Salifu Walid, a Nigerien national, and 24-year-old Aziz Wadrago Mane, a Burkinabe national, were arrested on September 20, 2026, at a hideout in Banpanase, near Mamponteng in the Ashanti Region.
According to the Ghana Police Service, preliminary investigations indicate that the two suspects were allegedly members of a four-man group linked to the kidnapping and murder of the Senegalese national.
Suspects Allegedly Posed as Football Scouts
Police investigations indicate that the suspected group allegedly operated under the guise of football scouting agents.
The suspects are alleged to have used online platforms and personal networks to attract unsuspecting individuals to Ghana with promises of football opportunities and scouting deals.
During interrogation, police said the two arrested suspects allegedly admitted involvement in the incident and disclosed their respective roles in allegedly luring Cheikh Toure into Ghana.
Authorities are continuing investigations to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged kidnapping and murder.
Cheikh Toure’s Body Found at Manhyia Hospital
The body of Cheikh Toure was brought to the Manhyia District Government Hospital on October 16, 2025.
Police said three unidentified men, believed to be foreign nationals, abandoned the body at the hospital before leaving the area.
The incident triggered an investigation by the Ghana Police Service to identify the perpetrators and determine the motive behind the alleged killing.
Two Suspected Accomplices Remain at Large
Police investigations have identified additional individuals allegedly connected to the case.
One alleged accomplice, Noukoubri Arzouma Sylviain, also known as Prince Pierre, remains at large. Investigators believe he may have played a central role in the suspected cross-border operation.
Another foreign national identified only as Barry is also being sought by the police.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command said it has intensified its manhunt for the two named suspects and other individuals who may have links to the alleged crime.
Police Continue Investigation Into Alleged Football Scam
The case has raised concerns about the misuse of football scouting opportunities and online recruitment networks to allegedly lure victims across national borders.
The police investigation is expected to establish how the suspects allegedly operated, how Cheikh Toure was brought into Ghana and the roles played by other persons connected to the case.
The arrests also form part of ongoing efforts by Ghana’s security agencies to investigate serious crimes involving kidnapping, murder and suspected cross-border criminal networks.
Suspects to Face Court
The two arrested suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be processed before court as investigations continue.
The Ashanti Regional Police Command said it remains committed to identifying and arresting all persons found to have played a role in the alleged kidnapping and murder of Cheikh Toure.
Police are also continuing efforts to locate the suspects who remain at large and determine whether additional individuals were involved in the case.
Source: newsthemegh.com