Two arrested over kidnapping, murder of Senegalese goalkeeper in Kumasi

Two foreign nationals have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of Senegalese goalkeeper Cheikh Toure in Kumasi.

The Ghana Police Service said the suspects were arrested after a sustained intelligence-led operation into the death of the footballer in October 2025.

They have been identified as Salifu Walid, a 32-year-old Nigerien, and Aziz Wadrago Mane, a 24-year-old Burkinabe.

Police say the two were arrested on September 20, 2026, at a hideout at Banpanase, near Mamponteng in the Ashanti Region.

According to the Police, Mr Toure was taken to the Manhyia Hospital in Kumasi on October 16, 2025, by some persons who claimed to be his brothers.

He had multiple abdominal injuries.

The persons allegedly told hospital authorities that he had been involved in an accident.

Mr Toure was, however, pronounced dead on arrival.

The Police said the individuals later deposited his body at the Ebenezer Mortuary at Tafo in Kumasi and fled.

Investigations into the incident led police to the two suspects.

Preliminary findings suggest that the suspects were part of a four-member group believed to have masterminded the kidnapping and murder of the Senegalese goalkeeper.

The group allegedly posed as football scout agents and used online platforms to lure victims into Ghana.

Police say the suspects admitted during interrogation that they played roles in luring Mr Toure to Ghana as part of an alleged scheme to defraud him.

Investigators are now pursuing two other suspects identified as Noukoubri Arzouma Sylviain, also known as Prince Pierre, and Barry.

Police believe the two played central roles in the activities of the group.

Salifu Walid and Aziz Wadrago Mane remain in police custody and are expected to be processed for court.

The Ghana Police Service says investigations are continuing as efforts are made to arrest the remaining suspects.