Former Hearts of Oak chairman Harry Zakour blames security for death of Asante Kotoko fan
Former Hearts of Oak chairman, Harry Zakour, has criticized security officials following the tragic killing of Asante Kotoko supporter Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley.
Pooley was murdered by unidentified assailants during Asante Kotoko’s Matchday 19 fixture against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre. His death led to the suspension of the Ghana Premier League’s Matchday 20 fixtures by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Reacting to the incident, Zakour expressed disappointment over the inadequate security measures that failed to prevent the violence.
"I blame the security for the violence in Nsoatre. What I saw was that the security couldn't control what happened," he told Asempa FM.
"It is about time we sit up and do what is needful."
He also urged the Ghana Police Service to ensure justice is served, stressing that it should act as a deterrent.
"The Ghana Police Service should sit up and bring out the person who killed Nana Pooley and will urge the Police to handle this issue well, so it will be a lesson to everyone."
Asante Kotoko, in response, has vowed to withdraw from football activities until justice is fully served.
Meanwhile, authorities have made seven arrests, including Nsoatreman FC’s owner, Ignatius Baffour-Awuah. The former Minister for Employment and Labour Relations has been placed under a movement restriction order by Sunyani District Court "B."
In response to the growing concerns over matchday violence, the GFA has introduced stricter security protocols. These include appointing Club Safety and Security Officers and installing CCTV cameras at venues. Clubs that fail to comply will face penalties, including a GH₵20,000 fine and potential venue bans.