Video: Worrying scenes as journalists, fans are assaulted after FKF Shield Cup
This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.
- Chaotic scenes erupted at Nyayo National Stadium after Tusker beat Gor Mahia 3-1 in the FKF Shield Cup final on Sunday
- A section of Gor Mahia fans invaded the pitch as police deployed tear gas, with journalists and fans caught in the melee
- The Football Kenya Federation (FKF) released a strongly-worded statement with the new season set to begin soon
Football Kenya Federation (FKF) has strongly condemned acts of violence and harassment targeting journalists and fans following the FKF Shield Cup final between Gor Mahia FC and Tusker FC at Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday.
Tusker claimed the Shield Cup title with a 3-1 victory over Gor Mahia, but celebrations were overshadowed by serious disorder that broke out immediately after the final whistle.
Police deployed tear gas as a section of Gor Mahia supporters stormed the pitch, disrupting the trophy presentation ceremony and preventing Tusker players from lifting the silverware. Gor Mahia Vice President Sally Bolo was seen on the pitch appealing to supporters to stand down and stop destroying the presentation dais.
Journalist Reports Harrassment Incidents
Among those caught up in the chaos was Sporty FM journalist Hesbon Nyamari, who described a terrifying encounter with police officers during the disorder.
"Survived an abduction attempt. Till when will journalists be harassed in our line of duty? Till when are we going to condemn this behaviour in a well-written press release? When are we going to see an end to this?" Nyamari said.
FKF Vows to Pursue Those Responsible
FKF issued a formal statement condemning the behaviour witnessed at the stadium and announcing that it would work alongside relevant authorities to establish accountability.
"Football Kenya Federation (FKF) strongly condemns the acts of violence, disorder and hooliganism witnessed after today's FKF Super Cup match between Gor Mahia FC and Tusker FC at Nyayo National Stadium. There is no place for violence, destruction of property, intimidation or any conduct that puts the safety of players, journalists, officials, fans, security personnel and the public at risk," the Federation said.
The Federation further indicated that individuals found to have violated FKF regulations or the law would face appropriate consequences, regardless of whether they were fans, club officials, stewards, or security officers.
"The Federation will work with the relevant authorities and football stakeholders to establish the circumstances surrounding the incidents and pursue those found responsible for acts of violence or misconduct. Any individual found to have breached FKF regulations or the law, whether a fan, club official, steward or security officer, should face appropriate action in accordance with due process," FKF added.
The match served as a curtain-raiser for the new football season.
Gor Mahia had earlier secured the FKF Premier League title, while Tusker's Shield Cup triumph earned the two clubs continental berths, with Gor Mahia set to feature in the CAF Champions League and Tusker in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Source: TUKO.co.ke
Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.