The following year, he took part in the FIFA U-17 World Championship in Finland: however, shortly before the representative flew back to Sierra Leone, Bantamoi and several other players, including future senior international Mohamed Kamara, escaped from their accommodation and defected.
The following year, he participated in the FIFA U-17 World Cup in Finland: however, shortly before the team's return flight to Sierra Leone, Bantamoi and several other players, including future senior international Mohamed Kamara, escaped from their lodging and defected.