Ghana Sports Ministry Responds to Visa Scandal Involving Alleged Fake Paralympic Team

The Sports Ministry has stated that the visa scandal involving the alleged fake Ghana’s Paralympic team does not reflect "the dedication and integrity” of Ghana's sports fraternity.

JoySports intercepted a letter from the Ministry of National Security on how nine members of the ‘team’ are on the run following accusations of impersonation.

According to the letter, 11 athletes obtained visas from the Norwegian Embassy in Accra to participate in the Fjordkraft Bergen City Marathon in Oslo on April 27 this year. However, they failed to register for the competition and a member of the team, Nana Antwi, was apprehended for “attempting to depart Norway for Sweden on a one-way train ticket.”

The team's coach, George Gyamfi Gyasi, passed away after collapsing and being admitted to Oslo University Hospital (ULEVAL) on April 28, 2024.

The remaining members have absconded, and the letter warned that the incident has the “potential to hinder future Ghanaian contingents.”

The Sports Ministry’s press release reads: “It is important to note that while this incident is unfortunate, it does not define the dedication and integrity of the entire sports fraternity. Our athletes and officials have consistently showcased remarkable discipline and commitment to sporting excellence, bringing pride and joy to our nation at several international competitions. [Sports Ministry was] unaware of the participation of the Paralympic team in the Marathon.”

In an interview with JoySports, President of Ghana's Paralympic Committee, Samson Deen, also denied signing a letter seeking visa assistance from the Norwegian Embassy for the competition.

"I have to put it on record that the Ghana Paralympic Committee has not sent anybody or sent a letter to apply for a visa," Deen told the host of the Joy Sports Link, Nathaniel Attoh. "They forged my signature on the letter and applied for visas for some people who have no affiliation with the Ghana Paralympic Team.