AFC Leopards has issued an official statement condemning the violent incident that occurred after their 2-0 loss to Ulinzi Stars on Sunday.
The club’s official statement follows an incident where some unruly fans harassed head coach Thomas Trucha after the team suffered its third defeat of the season.
The match held at Kinoru Stadium in Meru saw tensions rise after Ulinzi scored their first goal. As the game progressed in the second half, Ingwe conceded a second and the atmosphere turned hostile.
Some fans directed their frustration toward club officials, and in a disturbing turn of events, Trucha was physically assaulted and had to be escorted out of the stadium for his safety.
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In their statement, AFC Leopards opened by thanking the fans who attended the match, acknowledging their loyalty and support before emphasizing the team’s commitment to achieving success and delivering positive results.
“We want to remind everyone of the immense effort and commitment from our management team, the National Executive Council (NEC), the Technical Bench (TB), and the players in preparing for every match.
Every training session, every tactical discussion, and every ounce of effort on the field is dedicated to achieving success, not defeat,” the club noted.
However, the club condemned the violent actions that occurred after the match, stating “hooliganism” has no place in Kenyan football.
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AFC Leopards also reminded fans that there are proper channels through which grievances can be raised, urging supporters to use them rather than resorting to violence.
“Regrettably, after Ulinzi scored their first goal, the atmosphere took an unfortunate and hostile turn. Officials were targeted with insults, and most distressingly, after the second goal, our head coach, Thomas Trucha, was assaulted and had to be swiftly escorted out of Kinoru Stadium,” the statement said.
“This incident is unacceptable, and as AFC Leopards’ management, we condemn these unwarranted actions in the strongest terms possible.”
The club also expressed concerns about the damage such incidents could do to the AFC Leopards brand, noting that some partners had voiced concerns over the safety and reputation of the club.
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AFC Leopards vow to take action
In response, AFC Leopards has reported the incident to the police and vowed to take strong action against any fans found responsible.
Those found guilty of engaging in violent acts will face a permanent ban from attending any AFC Leopards matches.
“Our brand as AFC Leopards and the brands of our esteemed partners are at risk if we allow such behavior to continue,” the club stated.
“In fact, our partners are concerned with the turn of events. We will fully cooperate with law enforcement to ensure that those responsible are held accountable under the law.”
“Any fan found guilty of participating in these acts of violence will face a ban from stadiums and all club activities.”
The incident follows a worrying trend in Kenyan football, where fan unrest has spilled over into violence.
Similar events occurred over the weekend when Gor Mahia supporters clashed with their coach after a 2-2 draw against Murang’a Seals, while Shabana FC was forced to sideline coach Sammy Omollo “Pamzo” after fans called out the team management to sack him.
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