Tragedy struck in Uganda as an Arsenal fan, John Ssenyonga, was shot and killed during celebrations of the Gunners' 2-0 victory over Manchester United in a Premier League match on Wednesday, December 4.
The incident, reported by BBC News on Thursday, December 5, occurred in Lukaya town, central Uganda, approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the capital, Kampala. Ssenyonga, aged 30, died at the scene after a security guard allegedly opened fire on jubilant fans gathered at a local restaurant to watch the match.
According to witnesses, the celebrations grew loud towards the end of the game, prompting the restaurant manager to instruct the guard to intervene. The manager reportedly switched off the power in an attempt to disperse the crowd, which only fueled their excitement further.
"The fans did not heed a warning to quiet down," a local journalist, Farish Magembe, told the BBC.
Amid the chaos, the guard allegedly fired several shots, fatally wounding Ssenyonga and injuring another Arsenal supporter, Lawrence Mugejera, who is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
Both the security guard and the restaurant manager fled the scene after the shooting. Ugandan police have since recovered a firearm at the location and launched a search for the suspects.
Regional police spokesman Twaha Kasirye condemned the incident and urged anyone with information to come forward, saying:
"We condemn the incident and ask anyone with information that can help the police bring the suspect to justice to speak up. We also urge fans to control their excitement during such celebrations."
The tragic death of Ssenyonga has sparked outrage and grief among the local community and football enthusiasts in Uganda. It also serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of managing crowd control and addressing conflicts without resorting to violence.
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