An investigation is underway after an Arsenal fan was allegedly beaten to death in Uganda on the day Arsenal celebrated winning the Premier League title. Police said the suspect in Sunday’s incident is believed to be a Manchester United supporter. Mikel Arteta’s side clinched Arsenal’s first top-flight crown in 22 years and ended the season with a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace, sparking moments of jubilation among fans across Uganda, where the club has a large following.
However, a 34-year-old motorcycle taxi driver, identified only as Dennis, died in the capital, Kampala, in a suspected collision. Dennis was reportedly watching the match at a viewing center in Bakri, just outside his home. Kampala Police Spokesperson Rachel Kawala said: “The incident occurred at around 6.30pm on Sunday. Preliminary reports suggest that Dennis, who was reportedly an Arsenal FC supporter, was mistaken for a man.”
“His name is Mushiram and he is said to be a Manchester United fan. The disagreement reportedly escalated into an argument, during which the suspect allegedly punched Dennis in the head. The impact caused Dennis to fall to the ground, killing him instantly. Efforts are ongoing to trace and arrest the suspect.”
Premier League football has a large following in Uganda, with spectators regularly flocking to viewing centers to watch matches on large screens.
But the soccer rivalry has also been linked to a series of violent incidents in the East African country. “The incident raises new concerns about violent clashes arising from soccer rivalries,” local newspaper Nile Post reported.
“Supporters often gather to watch matches, especially in urban areas.”
Arsenal players celebrated at the Emirates in London on the night Manchester City dropped points at Bournemouth, on the night they won the title, and again on the Crystal Palace pitch after the win at Selhurst Park.
After the win against Palace, Arteta said: “It’s very difficult to describe in words, but it’s a great moment. I felt a lot of emotion, a lot of joy, a lot of pride. I think the way the game was played showed how the players felt and why this magic happened.”
“That’s different. Last night was magical and what we did here this afternoon is even better because the whole staff is there and everyone is exposed to it. You can see the joy of the players and the supporters, the way they behave towards the team and of course the families are there too and that adds to something.”
2 I think now we need to take action and do what we’ve been doing all season: winning football games. One more win and we are European champions, it’s that simple. And the rest will come. ”
