The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has reaffirmed its commitment to seeking justice for a 16-year-old footballer, Ransford Owusu Ansah, who was allegedly sexually abused by his coach, Ibrahim Anyass, at the Siano Soccer Academy in Amasaman.
In a statement issued on Friday, November 7, 2025, the Ministry said it took immediate interest in the case following reports of the abuse and subsequent death of the young footballer.
According to the Ministry, preliminary findings revealed that the victim had been under the care of the coach for the past three years, during which he was allegedly subjected to sexual abuse without the knowledge of his mother. The boy reportedly began receiving medical treatment in December 2024 and was later admitted to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH), where he passed away.
The Siano Soccer Academy has since suspended the accused coach and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice.
“We empathize deeply with the bereaved family. The Ministry emphasizes that crime has no expiration and remains committed to pursuing justice for the victim and his family,” the statement said.
The Ministry further noted that when the Minister assumed office in February 2025, she engaged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to strengthen child protection mechanisms within football. Following this, the Siano Soccer Academy temporarily closed its facility pending investigations.
The case has been referred to the Homicide Unit of the CID Headquarters by the Amasaman Domestic Violence and Victims Support Unit (DOVVSU) for further investigation.
The Ministry urged the public to report any suspected cases of child abuse and violence through the Domestic Violence call centre on 0800-111-222 or at the nearest DOVVSU or Social Welfare office.
