The Ministry for Youth and Sports has launched an investigation into the disappearance of a group of alleged Ghanaian Para-athletes who failed to participate in the Fjordkraft Bergen Marathon in Norway.
The incident came to light after the group expected to represent Ghana at the Bergen Marathon in Oslo, Norway, in April, absconded.
Tragically, one of the athletes passed away, while another was apprehended by Norwegian authorities while attempting to move to Sweden.
The Ministry of Sports has vehemently condemned the incident and denied any relationship with the alleged group, including the President of the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana, Samson Deen.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, July 24, the Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif announced that an investigation has commenced into the matter, warning of severe disciplinary actions against those found responsible.
“The Ministry of Youth & Sports is collaborating with relevant authorities to investigate the situation and uncover the details surrounding the incident.”
Mustapha Yussif added that he could not take responsibility for the scandal and instead blamed the Norwegian authorities for failing to act prudently.
“The Norwegian authority which issued the Visas to the Athletes didn’t see it prudent to even verify from the ministry to see whether these are genuine athletes or not so to your question whether I take responsibility, I’m sorry I can’t.”