The mortal remains of Black Stars’ winger, Christian Atsu will be flown home for burial, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has revealed.
In a statement dated February 18, 2023, the ministry said arrangements are being made by Government of Ghana through its Embassy in Türkiye with assistance from the Turkish government to have his body transported to Ghana for burial.
“The Embassy is currently making the necessary arrangements with the assistance of the Government of Türkiye to have the body transported to Ghana for burial,” it stated.
Earlier today, the late footballer’s agent, Murat Uzunmehmet announced that his lifeless body was found from the rubble of his apartment in Türkiye after he went missing following the devastating earthquake that hit the Asian country where he resided and played for Hatayspor.
The ministry, in its statement, confirmed the development and added that the remains of the international footballer was recovered in the presence of his brother and twin sister as well as an officer of the Ghana Embassy there.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration has received the unfortunate news of the recovery of the body of Christian Atsu from the rubble of his apartment, following the earthquake which struck Türkiye on 6th February, 2023. This comes after almost 12 days of tortuous search by a rescue team,” it said.
“Government extends to the widow and family of Christian Atsu our deepest condolences,” it added.
The Ghanaian international footballer was among thousands of people that went missing following the earthquake.
There were, however, reports few days later after the incident that the player was found. His Club, Hatayspor corroborated the reports, saying he was rescued “with injuries”.
But it turned out there was a mistaken identity, sending his home country back to intense prayers and in some instances, fasting for divine intervention for his safety and eventual rescue.
The close to two weeks of prayers, however, went unanswered as he was found dead today.
