Police in Kabale District, Western Uganda, are on the hunt for an Arsenal Football Club fan suspected of assaulting a Manchester United fan, resulting in the latter’s death.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening at Kyobugombe Trading Centre in Kaharo Sub County, Kabale District, following a Premier League match between Arsenal and Liverpool, ending in a 2-2 draw at Arsenal’s home ground, Emirates Stadium.
The Kaharo Sub County LCIII Chairperson, Edmond Tumwesigye, identified the suspect as Onan, in his 30s, while the deceased, named as Benjamin Okello, also lived in Katenga Parish, Kaharo Sub County.
The altercation reportedly began in a video hall at Kyobugombe Trading Centre where fans gathered to watch the match. As Liverpool scored an equalizer in the 81st minute, the Manchester United fan, Okello, began celebrating, angering the Arsenal fan. When Okello threw popcorn at the Arsenal fan, it escalated into an argument. After the game, the Arsenal fan allegedly struck Okello with a stick, causing him to collapse. Okello was initially taken to Bukinda Health Centre but was later referred to Rugarama, where he died.
The District Police Commander, Joseph Bakaleke, confirmed that they have yet to arrest the suspect, who is currently on the run. Police are urging the relatives of the deceased to remain calm as they continue searching for the suspect and gathering accounts from witnesses to aid the investigation.
A community security meeting was held on Monday evening with the deceased’s family, community members, and local leaders to address the incident and encourage patience during the investigation. Katenga LCII Chairperson, Edward Byabasheija, noted that the suspect has a history of criminal behavior in the area.