What Happened to Cheikh Touré? Fake Scouts Scam Claims Life of Senegalese Soccer Star

The football world is mourning the loss of Cheikh Touré, an 18-year-old Senegalese footballer who tragically died in Ghana after allegedly falling victim to a fake scouts scam.

According to a statement from Senegal’s Ministry of African Integration, Foreign Affairs & Senegalese Abroad, Touré’s death occurred in Kumasi, Ghana. Preliminary investigations revealed that the young athlete “may have fallen victim to a network of fraud and extortion.”

Lured by False Promises

Reports from Daily Sabah indicate that Cheikh Touré, who played for Espri Foot Mbul Academy, was approached by individuals posing as scouts from a North African football club. They allegedly invited him to Ghana for a trial opportunity.

However, after his arrival earlier in October, the scammers reportedly abducted him and demanded thousands of dollars in ransom from his family. When the ransom wasn’t paid, they are believed to have killed the teenager.

An individual claiming to be Touré’s brother, Isaah, later brought his body to Manhyia Hospital, stating that he had been in an accident. Doctors confirmed his death and transferred his remains to the Ebenezer Morgue in Tafo.

Ghana Police Launch Special Investigation

The Ghana Police Service (GSP) announced on October 21 that Inspector-General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno had deployed a special investigations team to support the Ashanti Region Police Command.

The team includes homicide investigators, forensic experts, and intelligence officers tasked with uncovering the full details of Touré’s death.
In a statement, GSP assured the public: “A thorough investigation will be conducted to unravel the case and any perpetrators brought to justice.”

Senegalese Community and Mame Balla Mbow Step In

Cheikh Touré’s death has sparked outrage and grief across Senegal and Ghana. In response, Senegalese comedian Mame Balla Mbow launched a fundraiser to support the late footballer’s family.

Posting on Instagram, Mbow highlighted how fake football agents exploit young African players’ dreams, calling on the government to better protect aspiring athletes.

His Kopar Express campaign has raised over 7.7 million CFA francs from more than 5,600 donors as of October 21.

A Harsh Reality for Young African Footballers

The case has renewed calls for stricter oversight of football scouting activities in Africa. Many young players, desperate to pursue their dreams abroad, fall prey to fraudulent agents and human traffickers.

As investigations continue in Ghana, Cheikh Touré’s death serves as a painful reminder of the dangers that exist within the world of unregulated football scouting.