Accra, March 11 (IANS): The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has expressed concern about reports that some local players are betting away the fortunes of their clubs.

Media reports are rife about the rise in football betting by players and some officials of clubs playing in the local league, reports Xinhua.

A premier league club coach Mohammed Gargo has accused his players of being involved in sports betting, something which he says has accounted for the poor performance of the club in the league campaign.

GFA president Kwesi Nyantakyi said the association is worried about the canker which has crept into the body fabric of football administration in Ghana.

"The security agencies have been notified to do the necessary investigations and then we will bring all culprits involved to book," Nyantakyi said at a press conference.

Betting in sports games is not illegal in Ghana. However, players and club officials are barred from involving themselves in gambling.

"Spectators and fans may do betting. But players of clubs and club officials are not supposed to get involved. So I can assure you that the football association is taking actions to deal with it," said Nyantakyi.