Sports Minister Mustapha Yusif has criticised the Norwegian Embassy in Ghana for its alleged failure to conduct proper due diligence during the visa application process, that led to a scandal involving Ghanaian para-athletes.

According to reports, nine out of an 11-member team of para-athletes from Ghana disappeared upon arriving in Oslo for the Bergen Marathon earlier this year.

In a statement addressed to the Sports Ministry and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, the Ministry of National Security revealed that one para-athlete, Nana Antwi, has been detained by Norwegian authorities.

Tragically, the team's coach, George Gyamfi Gyasi, passed away shortly after collapsing and being admitted to Oslo University Hospital on April 28, 2024.

The National Paralympic Committee has suspended three individuals accused of masterminding the incident.

However, the Minority in Parliament is demanding a thorough investigation.

North Tongu MP, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighted that the team did not even register for the marathon, suggesting they never intended to participate.

“Diplomatic envoys or foreign service staff have questions to answer. They did not even register for the game. They had no intention to participate in the game,” Mr. Ablakwa stated.

At a press conference held in Accra, the Sports Minister deflected responsibility, instead pointing fingers at the Norwegian authorities.

“The Norwegian authority which issued the visas to the athletes didn’t see it prudent to even verify from the ministry to see whether these are genuine athletes or not. So to your question whether I take responsibility, I’m sorry I can’t," the Minister said.

Adding to the controversy, President of the National Paralympic Committee Samson Deen claimed his signature was forged.

“We engaged, we checked, and we realized that the letter was written, they forged my signature, forged my letter, and applied for visas for some people who are not athletes,” Mr. Deen explained.