Former Labour Minister Ignatius Baffour Awuah Granted Bail in “Pooley” Murder Case
Former Labour Minister Ignatius Baffour Awuah has been granted bail in the amount of GHC 500,000, accompanied by two sureties, following his arrest in connection with the tragic murder of Asante Kotoko fan Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as “Pooley.”
Baffour Awuah, along with fellow suspect Joseph Kyeremeh, was granted bail by the Sunyani District Magistrate Court B and is scheduled to return to court on February 17, 2025. Both men face serious charges, with Baffour Awuah specifically charged with “abetment to commit crime, to wit murder,” under sections 20(1) and 46 of the Criminal Offenses Act of 1960.
The incident that led to the charges occurred during a violent clash at the Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman F.C. and Asante Kotoko in Nsoatre, which resulted in the untimely death of the devoted supporter. A third suspect, Agyemang Duah Owusu, remains in police custody after being arrested alongside Baffour Awuah and Kyeremeh.
In addition to the bail conditions, presiding judge Eric Daning mandated that Baffour Awuah surrender his passport to the court registry for the first 14 days following the bail grant. He is also prohibited from leaving the Sunyani Municipality without court approval.
The tragic events surrounding the match have sparked widespread outrage and calls for accountability within the football community, with many demanding stricter measures to ensure the safety of fans.
The GFA has already initiated investigations and imposed sanctions on the clubs involved.