Ogona Anita
football-related face-off has resulted to the sad death of 22-year-old master Benjamin Okello, a Manchester United supporter, following a heated argument with an Arsenal fan in Kyobugombe Trading Centre, Western Uganda.
According to media reports, trouble started on Sunday, October 27th, after Arsenal’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium.
The argument reportedly erupted when Okello celebrated Liverpool’s equalizer, scored by Mo Salah in the 81st minute.The celebration escalated the situation and after the match ended, the two got into a fight that left Benjamin Okello dead after he was hit with a stick by the Arsenal supporter, who has only been identified as Onan.
The incident was confirmed by Kaharo Sub County Chairperson, who recounted receiving news of the unfortunate incident early Monday morning.
“I received information. Yesterday morning (Monday), two men fought on Sunday night in Kyobugombe trading centre, and one of them was rushed to Bukinda Health Centre for treatment and was referred to Rugarama Regional Referral Hospital, where he died,” he said.
Meanwhile, the district police commander (DPC) of Kabale, Mr. Joseph Bakaleke, explained that police received reports about the incident and confirmed that one of the fans later succumbed to his injuries.
“We got information indicating that the two boys who were supporters of two different teams had a scuffle, and in so doing, one assaulted the other. It is alleged that when the assaulted one was taken to the hospital later alone, he met his death,” said Bakaleke.
The suspect, Onan, who is reportedly known for his notorious lifestyle in the area, is now the subject of an active police manhunt.
Authorities have appealed to anyone with useful information or who witnessed the altercation to come forward to aid in the investigation.
However, relatives of Okello are demanding justice, while Mr. Bakaleke called for calm among the family as the search for the suspect continues.
“We have tried to encourage the relatives of the deceased to calm down as we continue to hunt for the other one who is alleged to have participated in the fight to explain exactly what happened, as well as getting information from those who were present to aid the investigations in the matter,” said Bakaleke.
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