Court restricts movement of former minister over murder case

The Sunyani District Court "B" in the Bono Region has imposed travel restrictions on Ignatius Baffour-Awuah. He is the former Minister for Employment and Labour Relations. This is related to an alleged murder case.

As part of his bail conditions, Baffour-Awuah cannot leave Sunyani Municipality. He must get prior approval from the court for any travel.

Judge Eric Daning presided over the case on February 4, 2025. Baffour-Awuah, 58, appeared with two other suspects: Agyemang Duah Owusu and Joseph Kyeremeh. They are being prosecuted for the killing of Francis Frimpong.

Frimpong was a supporter of Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC. He died during a violent clash on February 2, 2025. The incident occurred at Nsoatre Prof Amoah Koromansah II Stadium during a match between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko.

The court charged Baffour-Awuah and Kyeremeh with abetment to commit murder. This falls under Sections 20(1) and 46 of the Criminal Offenses Act 1960 (Act 29). Both were granted bail set at GH¢500,000 with one surety each.

Additionally, Baffour-Awuah must submit his passport to the court registry for 14 days. Owusu, the bodyguard, was charged with murder and remanded into police custody until February 17, 2025.

Prosecutor Inspector Alexander Oppong stated that all suspects played a role in the murder. He requested their remand to assist ongoing investigations. A search of Owusu’s home found two dresses with suspected bloodstains and an MP 23 pistol loaded with ammunition.

Defense counsel Moses Obah argued for bail, stating his clients would cooperate with police investigations. The case has attracted significant public interest from football fans and political observers alike.