A District Court in Sunyani has imposed strict movement restrictions on Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, the former Employment and Labour Relations Minister, as part of his bail conditions following a murder investigation. Baffour-Awuah is involved in a case related to the tragic death of Francis Frimpong, a Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC supporter, during a violent altercation at a Ghana Premier League match.
Court Orders Restrictions on Former Minister’s Movements On February 5, 2025, the Sunyani District Court “B,” presided over by Judge Eric Daning, imposed specific conditions on Baffour-Awuah, who is the former Member of Parliament (MP) for Sunyani West and the owner of Nsoatreman FC. As part of his bail, Baffour-Awuah is prohibited from leaving the Sunyani Municipality without judicial approval.
Charges Against Ignatius Baffour-Awuah Baffour-Awuah, along with his bodyguard Agyemang Duah Owusu and Joseph Kyeremeh, appeared in court after being charged in connection with the murder of Francis Frimpong. The incident took place on Sunday, February 2, 2025, during a heated match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC at the Nsoatre Professor Amoah Koromansah II stadium.
Details of the Murder Investigation The accused suspects are charged with “abetment to commit murder” under Sections 20(1) and 46 of the Criminal Offenses Act, 1960 (Act 29). According to the prosecutor, Inspector Alexander Oppong, a search of Owusu’s residence revealed blood-stained clothing and an MP 23 pistol with 15 rounds of ammunition, which further implicated the suspects in the crime.
Bail Conditions and Future Court Proceedings
- Baffour-Awuah and Kyeremeh have been granted GH¢500,000 bail each, with one surety to be justified.
- Baffour-Awuah has been ordered to submit his passport to the court registry for 14 days, which will limit his travel.
- Agyemang Duah Owusu has been charged with murder and remains in police custody.
The next court hearing is scheduled for Monday, February 17, 2025, where the case will continue, and more details about the investigation will emerge.
Defense Argument for Bail Defense lawyer Moses Obah argued that his clients were prominent community figures and would cooperate with the ongoing investigations. He requested the court to grant bail based on their prominence and willingness to assist in the investigation.
Key Takeaways:
- Former Minister Ignatius Baffour-Awuah faces movement restrictions as part of his bail.
- He is charged with abetment to commit murder in connection to the tragic death of Francis Frimpong.
- Agyemang Duah Owusu, Baffour-Awuah’s bodyguard, faces a murder charge and remains in police custody.
- The case is tied to a violent altercation during a Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC.