Borussia Dortmund star Karim Adeyemi received a €450,000 fine for illegal weapon possession but avoided jail time, issuing a public apology for his “huge mistake.”
Germany’s preparations for their World Cup qualifier against Slovakia were marred by controversy after BILD revealed that Adeyemi had been charged with possession of illegal weapons.
Both the German football federation (DFB) and Borussia Dortmund were “caught unawares” after learning about the conviction via media leaks.
Prosecutors charged the speedy winger with a staggering €450,000 fine for possessing two illegal weapons – a knuckleduster and a stun gun. The penalty order imposing “60 daily fines of €7,500” became legally binding on October 30.
Taking to Instagram stories, the 23-year-old speedster admitted to making a “huge” mistake by possessing weapons without an official permit.
“At the beginning of 2024, out of carelessness and without really thinking about what I was doing, I ordered a so-called ‘mystery box’ on the internet. It contained items that are not permitted under weapons legislation.
Nevertheless, it was a huge mistake. One that I am very sorry about, that cost me dearly and that I deeply regret… I have learned more from this than I can put into words.
And I promise you that I will avoid such mistakes in the future. Thank you to everyone who still trusts and supports me.”
Adeyemi was fortunate, as his actions could have carried a prison sentence of up to three years, but the sanction was limited to a fine, giving him an entry in the central register but not a formal criminal record.
Dortmund managing director Lars Ricken addressed the matter: “He deeply regrets his mistake. However, it must also be taken into account that he had to pay a hefty fine, no one was harmed, and the player continues to be considered to have no criminal record.
Karim Adeyemi has firmly promised us that he will not make such a mistake again. We trust him to keep his word.”
DFB sporting director Rudi Voller acknowledged the error but defended the player, adding, “We also live a bit in a time of outrage culture here in Germany… Everyone is always quick to complain, not that I want to sugarcoat it. It’s naive or stupid, no matter what you call it.”
Separately, according to a report from i-News, German forward Karim Adeyemi has admitted that leaving Manchester United in his youth was a “huge mistake.” The winger made the comment while reflecting on his career development.