Karim Adeyemi formally apologized on November 19 for possessing an illegal weapon .

According to a report in Bild last week, Adjemi was fined €450,000 for possession of two illegal weapons—a pair of brass knuckles and a stun gun. The case dates back to 2024 and was ultimately decided by the Hagen Regional Court in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

Adeyemi made his first public statement on Wednesday, expressing deep regret for his actions. He explained, "You've all probably heard about the headlines about me over the past few days. It's not easy for me to talk about this: In early 2024, due to a moment of carelessness and without considering the consequences, I ordered a so-called 'mystery box' online. The package contained items that violated weapons laws. The package arrived several months later, but was seized and sealed by the police before it was opened."

He continued, “This was indeed a huge mistake—I deeply regret it and have paid a heavy price for it. I sincerely apologize for it. I know I have a responsibility to be a role model when I am in the public eye, but I failed to do so. That is why I hate myself even more for my reckless behavior. The lessons I have learned are far more than words can express. I assure everyone that I will never do it again. Thank you to everyone who still trusts and supports me.”

Borussia Dortmund and the German Football Association (DFB) subsequently took joint action against Adyemi. He was required to visit Nordstadliga Dortmund, a special social project organization in Dortmund's northern suburbs, in the coming weeks and participate in children's training sessions as an additional penalty.

Borussia Dortmund's sporting director, Lars Ricken, stated: "We take this matter very seriously and have had in-depth and clear communication with Karim Adyemi regarding his actions. He deeply regrets his mistake. It must also be considered that he has paid a hefty fine, caused no harm, and has no criminal record. Karim Adyemi has solemnly promised us that he will not repeat this mistake. We believe he will keep his promise."