Five Asante Kotoko fans accused of assaulting match officials during a Ghana Premier League match have been granted bail by a court in Kumasi. The suspects, identified as Anthony Twum Barima, Habib Moro, George Aduko (popularly known as Adongo), Baba Iddi, and Yaw Bediako (nicknamed Osebo), appeared before Circuit Court 1 in Asokwa on April 9, 2024.

Presiding Judge His Honour Obiri Kyere granted each of the accused bail in the amount of GH¢30,000, with one surety to be justified, after they pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy and assault.

The arrests came after the five individuals allegedly attacked match officials during the game between Asante Kotoko and Nations FC. The suspects, purported supporters of Asante Kotoko, will return to court on May 3, 2024, for Case Management Conference (CMC).

Following Asante Kotoko’s 1-0 defeat at home to Nations FC, rioting fans stormed the pitch and assaulted Referee James Taylor, his two assistants Kwesi Brobbey and Roland Addy, and fourth official Hasim Yakubu.

The Ghana Football Association’s Safety and Security Committee is taking proactive steps to address hooliganism at football matches, and the arrest and prosecution of these individuals are part of these efforts. The GFA is committed to enforcing relevant regulations and ensuring a safe match-day environment for players, officials, supporters, and all involved in the sport.