Ghana police arrest two suspects in murder of Senegalese goalkeeper

Ghanaian police have arrested two foreign nationals in connection with the kidnapping and murder of Cheikh Touré, a young Senegalese goalkeeper. The suspects, identified as 32-year-old Nigerien Salifu Walid and 24-year-old Burkinabé Aziz Wadrago Mane, were apprehended on September 20, 2026, in the Ashanti Region.

Investigations reveal that the suspects were part of a four-man criminal network that operated under the guise of football scouting agents. Using online platforms and personal networks, the group lured aspiring players to Ghana with false promises of professional contracts or opportunities at academies in Morocco.

Touré’s body was discovered at the Manhyia District Government Hospital on October 16, 2025, after being abandoned by unidentified men. During interrogations, the arrested suspects reportedly confessed to their roles in the scheme. The investigation, supported by the Senegalese Criminal Investigation Division and Interpol, is currently searching for two remaining accomplices: Noukoubri Arzouma Sylviain, also known as ‘Prince Pierre’, and an individual named Barry.

The case has highlighted the dangers of unverified recruitment offers targeting young athletes across West Africa.