Senegalese football has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of 18-year-old goalkeeper Cheikh Touré in Ghana.

According to the Senegalese Ministry of African Integration and Foreign Affairs, Touré was deceived by fake football scouts who promised him a trial with a professional club abroad. Upon his arrival in Ghana, he was reportedly kidnapped by the fraudsters, who then demanded a ransom from his family.

“The young footballer was deceived by fraudsters posing as football scouts. They kidnapped him and demanded a ransom from his family. Tragically, when the family couldn’t meet the demands, the kidnappers ended his life,” the ministry said, as reported by 3news.com.

In a statement, the ministry urged football clubs, academies, coaches, and parents to be extremely vigilant about unverified offers of trials or transfers abroad.

Authorities in both Ghana and Senegal have launched a joint investigation to track down and prosecute those behind the heinous act.