In a recent development, a court in Kumasi has granted bail to five individuals accused of attacking match officials during a Ghana Premier League encounter between Asante Kotoko and Nations FC on March 24, 2024.

The suspects, identified as Anthony Twum Barima, Habib Moro, George Aduko (popularly known as 'Adongo'), Baba Iddi, and Yaw Bediako (nicknamed Osebo), appeared before Circuit Court 1, Asokwa on Tuesday, April 9, 2024.

Presiding Judge His Honour Obiri Kyere granted bail to the accused, setting the bail amount at GHC 30,000 each, with one surety to be justified.

The decision came after the defendants pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy and assault.

The arrests followed an incident during the match where match officials, including Referee James Taylor and his assistants Kwesi Brobbey and Roland Addy, as well as fourth official Hasim Yakubu, were attacked by rioting fans after Asante Kotoko's 1-0 defeat at home to Nations FC.

The suspects, allegedly Asante Kotoko supporters, will return to court on May 3, 2024, for Case Management Conference (CMC) proceedings.

The Ghana Football Association's Safety and Security Committee has been proactive in addressing hooliganism at football matches.

The arrest and prosecution of the five individuals are part of the concerted efforts to tackle such behaviour.