Karonga police arrest 17 over violence

BY BERNARD MHONE:

Police in Karonga have arrested 17 Karonga United supporters in connection with the violence that happened during their TNM Super League match against Silver Strikers at Karonga Stadium on Sunday.

Some Karonga fans attacked their colleagues after accusing them of supporting Silver.

Karonga Police spokesperson, George Mulewa, said 10 fans were injured during the violence, and they have since been admitted to Karonga District Hospital.

“Our investigations are underway, but be assured that justice will prevail in the matter,” Mulewa said.

One of the assaulted fans, Chipiliro Masulani, confirmed that a group of Karonga fans descended on them [together with Patrick Chakufwa and Mathews Ngonya], accusing them of supporting Silver.

“After the incident, we went to police where we got a report for us to seek medical help. I have a terrible headache,” he said.

Another fan, Robert Kimbowe, echoed Masulani’s sentiments, saying supporting a team of their choice was their democratic right.

He said Karonga supporters confronted him, asking why he was supporting Silver when he lives in Karonga.

“I will never go to the stadium again to watch a game involving Karonga United. I can’t be risking my life for soccer,” he said.

Karonga Supporters Committee Chairperson, Heston Mwambuli, said his subjects did not injure any fan.

“Karonga United supporters did not attack anyone. The casualties know better about what happened to them,” he said.

Silver General Secretary, Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, said he saw Karonga supporters beating up their fellow fans, adding that he lodged a complaint to Karonga officials and they apologised.

Super League of Malawi Vice-General Secretary, Thoko Chazema, said the matter has not been reported to them and that they are waiting for reports from the match’s stakeholders.

Another Super League game between Blue Eagles and Be Forward Wanderers was also marred by violence on Sunday at Nankhaka Ground after fans protested over the hiked gate entry fee of K1,500, forcing Sulom to put the fee at K1,000.