Authorities in Ghana have opened an investigation into the death of 20-year-old Senegalese footballer Cheikh Touré, who is believed to have fallen victim to a fraud and extortion network, according to officials in Dakar.
The Ghana Police Service confirmed on Monday that Touré’s body was found in the Ashanti Region and later taken to the Ebenezer Mortuary in Tafo, approximately 250 kilometers from Accra.
Preliminary reports from the Regional Criminal Investigation Department indicate that an individual identified as Issah, who claimed to be the victim’s brother, transported Touré to the Manhyia Government Hospital in critical condition. He was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Investigators noted multiple abdominal injuries and stated that all possible leads are being pursued to determine the cause and circumstances of his death.
In a statement released on Saturday, the Senegalese Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs and Senegalese Abroad confirmed Touré’s death and said early findings suggest he had been targeted by a criminal group involved in financial fraud.
Senegalese authorities said they are in contact with their Ghanaian counterparts to ensure a comprehensive investigation.
Two embassy officials from Senegal’s mission in Accra have been sent to Kumasi to support local authorities and assist the family with the repatriation of the body once official procedures are completed.
The ministry emphasized that it is monitoring the situation “with the utmost attention,” while Ghanaian police have issued an appeal for witnesses as part of their ongoing investigation.
