4 shocking armed robbery attacks on Ghana Premier League clubs in recent years

The Ghana Premier League has in recent years been plagued by a disturbing rise in armed robbery attacks targeting football clubs during travel.

What should be a celebration of the beautiful game has increasingly been overshadowed by growing concerns over safety, hooliganism, and logistical challenges affecting teams across the country.

The tragic attack on Berekum Chelsea has reignited national concern, exposing a troubling pattern of insecurity on Ghana’s highways.

The incident, which claimed the life of promising young footballer Dominic Frimpong, has sent shockwaves through the football community and raised urgent questions about player safety.

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As domestic football continues to grow in competitiveness and visibility, the safety of players, coaches, and officials must become a top priority.

Here are four major armed robbery incidents involving Ghana Premier League clubs:

Legon Cities FC players and officials endured a terrifying ordeal when their team bus was ambushed on the Bibiani–Kumasi highway while returning to Accra.

Armed robbers reportedly forced players to lie face down at gunpoint before making away with valuables, including phones, laptops, and cash.

Although no lives were lost, the incident left deep psychological scars and raised concerns about security lapses, especially as it occurred near a police checkpoint.

In March 2022, AshantiGold SC were also targeted by armed robbers at Assin Endwa while travelling back to Obuasi from Accra.

The attackers opened fire on the team bus, damaging the windscreen. Fortunately, no injuries were recorded, but the attack highlighted the persistent risks clubs face on long-distance journeys.

Players and officials of Asokwa Deportivo FC were attacked near Jacobu while travelling to Prestea for a Division One League fixture.

Although the team escaped without physical harm, the robbery reinforced concerns about the vulnerability of lower-division clubs, who often travel with limited security protection.

The most tragic incident occurred on April 12, 2026, when Berekum Chelsea was ambushed along the Bibiani–Goaso road.

Armed robbers opened fire on the team bus, causing panic as players fled for safety.

Dominic Frimpong was fatally shot and later pronounced dead at the Bibiani Government Hospital.

The attack happened along the same corridor as the 2023 Legon Cities incident, intensifying fears about security in the area.

What must be done is clear: player safety has to become a top priority.

The Ghana Football Association must strictly enforce rules against night travel, while clubs should be required to coordinate with the Ghana Police Service for armed escorts on high-risk routes.

There is also a need for better match scheduling to reduce long-distance travel and improved security intelligence on known danger zones.

Ultimately, protecting players and officials is non-negotiable. Without decisive action, the credibility and future of the Ghana Premier League could be seriously undermined.