KILLED! Javits Frimpong
The Government of Ghana has called on authorities in the Bronx, New York, to expedite investigations into the shooting to death of 15-year-old Ghanaian student, Javits Frimpong, to ensure justice is served.
The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has issued a statement concerning the incident, which occurred last Thursday morning near Crotona Park when the teenager was shot in the stomach on his way to school.
In the statement, the government urged the relevant authorities in the Bronx, New York, to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.
According to the Ministry, officials from Ghana’s Permanent Mission in New York visited Mr. Thomas Frimpong, father of the deceased, at his home to commiserate with him and his family and convey solidarity, condolences and the support of Ghana.
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and our Permanent Mission in New York will actively pursue justice working with US authorities. We stand ready to provide appropriate legal and consular assistance.
“Ghana remains steadfast in its unwavering commitment to the safety, dignity and well-being of our citizens everywhere, any time, and in all circumstances,” the statement read.
Travel Bills
The Minister for Foreign Affairs has indicated that government will foot all bills relating to the travel of Doris Adu Gyamfi, mother of the late Javits Frimpong, to the United States.
In a post on X, Mr. Ablakwa said he spoke with the mother of Javits Frimpong and assigned officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assist her with the visa application process.
“Madam Doris Adu Gyamfi’s pain as a loving mother is unimaginable and indeed everything must be done to ensure she is present to pay her respects. The Mahama Administration will take care of the full cost of Madam Adu Gyamfi’s travels and also stands ready to contribute towards a dignifying funeral. We resolve to continue to work together in securing justice for Javits,” he said.
The Minister gave the assurance after the Mayor of New York City, Zohran Kwame Mamdani, revealed that he had had a conversation with American President Donald Trump, who has agreed to grant her visa to come and mourn her late son in New York.
Via his X page, Kwame Mamdani wrote: “The murder of a child is a pain no parent should have to endure, let alone from thousands of miles away. Javits Frimpong’s mother deserves to say goodbye to her son in person. I just got off the phone with President Trump and he has agreed to grant her visa immediately. All of New York City is mourning this tragedy.”
The Foreign Affairs Minister appreciated the quick intervention of the Mayor, saying: “The Government of Ghana welcomes your intervention and President Trump’s timely decision,” while assuring that government will bear all travel costs for Madam Adu Gyamfi.
Javits Frimpong was shot near Crotona Park by unknown assailants. Investigators are searching for three teenage boys alleged to have been involved in the shooting, who were seen fleeing the area wearing black sweatsuits and blue surgical masks.
By Prince Fiifi Yorke