Five out of Liberia’s ten representatives at the recent World Chess Olympiad in Budapest have failed to return home, according to the Liberia Chess Federation (LCF). Players Arnold Smith, Barcon Harmon, Obediah Saah, Thomas Saah, and Women’s Section captain Teta Thompson have reportedly gone missing, alongside two accompanying team members, Foday Kondoh and Alfred Kollie. This sudden disappearance left the team unable to compete fully in their scheduled match against Guam.
The LCF expressed deep regret over the incident, which has brought embarrassment to the country and the chess community. In response, the federation has suspended the absconding players indefinitely and has reported the matter to the African Confederation of Chess, Hungarian authorities, and the World Chess Federation (FIDE). The LCF also called for accountability from those who abused their Schengen visas issued by the Hungarian Embassy in Accra.
Despite the abscondment, Liberia’s chess team achieved notable success, especially in the women’s division. Abigail Karyah, a high school student, won eight out of eleven rounds, earning the prestigious Women FIDE Master (WFM) title. National female champion Georgina Sackie also received the same title, following an impressive run at the tournament.
The LCF reaffirmed its dedication to using chess for social and economic development in Liberia, while ensuring that those who undermine its mission face appropriate consequences.
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