– Five Liberian Chess Players Disappeared in Budapest, Hungary
By Jerromie S. Walters
The recent World Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary, took a concerning turn for the Liberia Chess Federation (LCF) as news emerged that five out of the ten Liberian representatives had not returned home. Among the missing players are Arnold Smith, Barcon Harmon, Obediah Saah, Thomas Saah, and Teta Thompson, who notably captained the Women’s Section.
The disappearance of these athletes has plunged the LCF and the nation into a state of distress and uncertainty. The federation has voiced profound worry over the well-being of the players and the potential repercussions of their absence on Liberia’s standing in the global chess community.
Furthermore, the situation has been exacerbated by the additional disappearance of two more team members, Foday Kondoh and Alfred Kollie, during the event. This troubling series of events has not only disgraced the LCF but has also sparked speculation regarding the circumstances that led these players to choose to stay in Hungary.
In response to these developments, the LCF has mobilized efforts in collaboration with local authorities and the international chess community to gather more information and locate the missing players. The federation remains optimistic for a prompt resolution and is appealing to the public for any relevant information that could aid in the search.
The World Chess Olympiad is a prestigious platform that unites players from across the world, showcasing the pinnacle of chess talent. However, the unexpected disappearances have cast a shadow over Liberia’s participation, highlighting the challenges faced by athletes from developing nations when competing on the global stage.
Despite the difficulties, the LCF reaffirms its dedication to supporting the families of the missing players and remains hopeful for their safe return. Additionally, the federation is advocating for heightened awareness surrounding the pressures encountered by athletes and the necessity for enhanced support systems to safeguard their well-being while representing their countries abroad.
