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A tragic incident unfolded in Lukaya town, central Uganda, where a 30-year-old Arsenal fan, John Ssenyonga, was reportedly shot dead by a security guard during celebrations following Arsenal’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United.
The shooting occurred at a local restaurant as jubilant Arsenal supporters gathered to celebrate the team’s win. Witness accounts indicate that the building’s manager, angered by the noise from the crowd, instructed the security guard to intervene.
Despite warnings to quiet down, fans continued their celebrations, reportedly growing louder after the manager cut power to the restaurant. The situation escalated when the guard allegedly fired multiple shots into the crowd.
Ssenyonga died at the scene, while another Arsenal fan, Lawrence Mugejera, sustained injuries and was hospitalized.
The security guard and the building manager fled the scene. Police recovered a firearm and have launched a manhunt for the suspects. Regional police spokesman Twaha Kasirye condemned the act and urged witnesses to assist in the investigation.
This incident is part of a troubling pattern of violence linked to English Premier League matches in Uganda. Tensions among fans have previously led to fatal altercations:
- In October, a Manchester United fan was stabbed by an Arsenal supporter after a heated argument.
- In January 2023, a youth councillor in Kampala was fatally stabbed while intervening in a football-related fight.
- A week prior, another Arsenal fan was beaten to death in Adjumani following a match.
Authorities have called for calm among football fans, urging them to celebrate responsibly and avoid confrontations. The incident underscores the need for measures to prevent football-related violence in communities where the sport is fervently followed.
