Ghanaian footballer Dominic Frimpong has died after suspected armed robbers opened fire on a team bus carrying players from Berekum Chelsea following a league match, authorities and club officials said.
The attack occurred on Sunday as the team was returning from a Ghana Premier League fixture against Samartex in Samreboi, around 270 km from Berekum. The match had ended in a 1-0 defeat for Berekum Chelsea.
According to the club, masked gunmen armed with rifles blocked the road and ambushed the bus, opening fire as the driver attempted to reverse. Players and staff fled into nearby bushes to escape the gunfire.
Police said the 20-year-old forward suffered gunshot wounds and later died while receiving treatment. A manhunt has been launched for the attackers, with additional security personnel and forensic teams deployed to the المنطقة.
Authorities said around 30 players and officials were on board when the vehicle came under attack by approximately six armed men.
The Ghana Football Association expressed “profound shock and deep sorrow” over Frimpong’s death, describing him as a promising young talent whose commitment reflected the spirit of the domestic league.
In a separate statement, the Ghana Premier League voiced its support for the club and urged security agencies to take urgent steps to protect teams travelling for matches.
The incident has renewed concerns over road safety and security in Ghana, where several clubs—including FC Savannah, Wa All Stars, Legon Cities and AshantiGold—have reportedly faced similar attacks in recent years.
Sports journalist Muftawu Abdulai said the country was in shock, with growing concerns over whether it remains safe for teams to travel for fixtures.
“If the lives of players cannot be protected, then it raises serious questions about continuing the competition,” he said.
Frimpong had joined Berekum Chelsea on loan from Aduana FC in January and had scored two goals in 13 appearances this season.
Aduana FC said it was mourning the loss, offering condolences to his family, teammates and the wider football community.