Gender Ministry Says Siano Soccer Academy Was Shut Down After Alleged Sodomy By Coach

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MoGCSP) says it shut down Siano Soccer Academy in Amasaman after allegations of sodomy by youth coach Ibrahim Anyass, leading to the death of a 16-year-old.

The temporary shutdown, it said, was to make way for an investigation by its Ashanti Regional Directorate.

The Ministry, in a statement, said the sector Minister, after assuming office in February 2025, engaged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) on the matter to ensure accountability and stronger child protection mechanisms within the football sector.

“Following this engagement, the Siano Soccer Academy, in addition to suspending the coach, temporarily closed the facility pending investigations.”

It further conducted investigations with the Amasaman DOVVSU and later referred the matter to the Greater Accra Regional DOVVSU.

“The docket has subsequently been transferred to the Homicide Unit of the CID Headquarters by the Amasaman DOVVSU for further investigations.”

Findings
According to the Ministry, 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.

Within the said period, it said he had allegedly been subjected to sexual abuse.

“Per the records, the victim had been receiving medical care since December 2024 and was later admitted to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for medical treatment, but unfortunately passed on.”

Suspension
The Ministry confirmed that the management of the Academy has since suspended the coach and pledged full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to ensure that justice is served.

Expressing its sympathies with the bereaved family, it emphasised that crimes have no expiration and therefore remains committed to pursuing justice for the victim and his family.

“The Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding the welfare, dignity, and rights of every child in Ghana.”

Story by Hajara Fuseini

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