Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, has reportedly been hit by a robbery incident in Vienna ahead of Friday’s international friendly against Austria, raising fresh security concerns around the team’s stay in Europe.
The Black Stars robbery was confirmed by a source at the Ghana Football Association (GFA), who said some members of the team were affected during their stay at the hotel.
The incident is said to have involved the theft of a substantial amount of cash and high-value personal items, although officials insist the team remains composed ahead of kickoff.
Cash and watches reportedly stolen
Providing details on Citi Prime News on Friday, Citi Sports journalist Gabby Ofei said the stolen items included $250,000 in cash and two Rolex watches.
“The report that came in indicates that two valuables have been stolen. A $250,000 cash and two Rolex watches,” he said.
According to him, the cash reportedly belonged to members of the management committee, while the watches were owned by players in camp.
The scale of the reported theft has sparked concern, especially given the timing of the incident just hours before the Black Stars are due to face Austria in a high-profile international friendly.
CCTV failure complicates investigations
Efforts to investigate the incident have reportedly been complicated by a major security lapse at the hotel.
“Regarding where the police are camping, the hotel indicated that their CCTV cameras are not functioning, which has made it difficult for the FA to furnish the Austrian police with proper evidence.” - Gabby Ofei
The malfunctioning surveillance system is expected to hinder early investigative efforts by Austrian police, who are said to be working with Ghanaian officials on the matter.
Despite the unsettling development, officials say the situation is under control, with players and technical staff remaining calm and focused on the match.
The GFA says it is collaborating closely with Austrian authorities and will issue further updates as more details emerge.
For now, attention will remain on both the police investigation and the Black Stars’ ability to stay mentally sharp as they prepare to take on Austria.
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