Former Ghanaian professional boxer Michael Ayitey Okai, popularly known as Ayitey Powers, has been arrested by the Accra Regional Police Command over an alleged death threat against National Sports Authority (NSA) Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.
The 46-year-old former boxer was arrested on Monday, August 24, after police became aware of a video circulating on social media in which he is alleged to have made threatening remarks against the NSA boss.
The Accra Regional Police Command confirmed the arrest in a statement signed by its Head of Public Affairs, Chief Superintendent Juliana Obeng.
According to the police, Ayitey Powers remains in custody and is assisting investigators as they examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged threat.
“The arrest follows a video circulating on social media in which the suspect is alleged to have issued the threat,” the police said.
Authorities have not disclosed what may have led to the alleged remarks or whether there was any previous disagreement between Ayitey Powers and Yaw Ampofo Ankrah.
Investigators are expected to establish the authenticity of the video, determine the context in which the remarks were made and assess whether the alleged comments amount to a criminal offence.
The police said any further action would depend on the outcome of the investigation.
The arrest has attracted attention within Ghana’s sporting community, largely because of Ayitey Powers’ prominence as a former professional boxer.
He enjoyed a long career in the boxing ring and became a well-known figure in Ghanaian boxing before moving on to other activities after his retirement.
Meanwhile, the Accra Regional Police Command has urged the public to exercise restraint and avoid circulating unverified information about the case.
The police encouraged members of the public to allow investigators to complete their work and assured that any necessary action would be taken in accordance with the law.
Ayitey Powers remains in police custody as investigations continue. Police have not yet indicated whether he will be formally charged or when he is expected to appear before a court.
By : Rachael Djabakie