The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection has expressed serious concern in the reported case of alleged sexual abuse of a 16-year old footballer, Ransford Owusu Ansah, by his coach, Ibrahim Anyass, at the Siano Soccer Academy in Amasaman.
In an update issued by the MoGCSP on Friday, November 7, 2025, upon learning of the incident, the Ashanti Regional Directorate of Gender immediately initiated follow-up investigations to ascertain the facts and engage relevant stakeholders, including the victim’s family.
The update noted that preliminary reports indicate that the victim had been under the care of the coach for the past three years and, unknown to his mother, had been subjected to sexual abuse during that period.
According to records, the victim had been receiving medical care since December 2024 and was subsequently admitted to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) for further treatment, where he unfortunately passed away.
Subsequently, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, engaged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) regarding the matter, with the aim of ensuring accountability and strengthening child protection measures within the football sector.
The Ministry, through its Orange Support Center (OSC) of the Domestic Violence Secretariat, conducted investigations at the Amasaman Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit (DOVVSU), subsequently referring the matter to the Greater Accra Regional DOVVSU.
The case has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Homicide Unit for further probe.
Ibrahim Anyass has been suspended by the academy, which has pledged to cooperate fully with law enforcement.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to protecting children’s rights and welfare, urging the public to report suspected child abuse cases via the Domestic Violence call center (0800-111-222) or nearest Social Welfare offices.
The Ministry further extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family, affirming its commitment to ensuring that justice is served for the victim and his family.
