Nsoatre clash: Kotoko IMC questions police conduct in stadium violence

The Interim Management Committee (IMC) Chairman of Asante Kotoko, Kontomponia Aferehene Nana Apinkra Akwasi Awua, has raised concerns over what he describes as an unprofessional attitude by police officers who were present at the scene when a fan, Pooley, was stabbed during a match between Kotoko and Nsoatreman FC.
Speaking during a meeting with the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Dr George Akuffo Dampare on Tuesday (4 February) and members of the Police Management Board (POMAB), Nana Apinkra Akwasi Awua expressed disappointment in the conduct of the officers, stating that they appeared indifferent despite the seriousness of the situation.
“Your officers at the scene after Pooley was stabbed appeared indifferent, which is deeply concerning. Some were even armed, as seen in the viral video and it is baffling that they made little intervention to stem the tide. Such unprofessional conduct must be addressed,” he told the IGP.
“Your presence here today reassures us of your commitment to seeking justice, and I assure you of our full cooperation. I will personally convey your message to the Asantehene, the life patron of the club,” the chief added.
The IGP Dr George Akuffo Dampare taking notice of these concerns assured that the police administration will ensure that perpetrators involved would face the full rigors of the law.
“We want to use this opportunity to wish you our best of condolences…And we will do whatever it takes to get to the bottom of this matter. As we reported yesterday, we have arrested three people so far. They are still being interrogated, and this would lead to some arrests and so we must say that we have something to move on”, the IGP assured.
The IGP’s meeting with the committee was part of ongoing fact-finding investigations into the violent incident, which has sparked concerns about security at football matches. Authorities are expected to take further action based on the findings of the committee.