Police are searching for a man who allegedly killed a second man over a football match in western Uganda.
Benjamin Ndyamuhaki, a 36-year-old Manchester United fan was reportedly assaulted by an Arsenal supporter on Sunday, 27 Oct. 2024, at Kyobugombe Trading Centre following an altercation that began after Arsenal and Liverpool tied 2-2 in an English Premier League match.
Ndyamuhaki’s body was laid to rest on Wednesday, 30 Oct. in Kabungo Cell, Katenga Parish, Kaharo Sub County, Kabale District. Friends and family gathered in sorrow to bid farewell to Ndyamuhaki, the fifth of eleven children.
Kaharo Sub County’s LCIII Chairperson Edmond Tumwesigye said that the clash erupted in a video hall when Liverpool scored a late equalizer, prompting Ndyamuhaki to celebrate.
He noted that the celebration, involving thrown popcorn, allegedly sparked an argument with an Arsenal fan, Onan Byampangi, who then struck Ndyamuhaki with a stick after the match.
“I was informed Monday morning that two men fought Sunday night, and one was taken to Bukinda Health Centre before being transferred to Rugarama, where he died. We’re actively searching for the suspect, who was last seen in Ntungamo,” Tumwesigye told mourners during the funeral.
Kabale District Police Commander (DPC) Joseph Bakaleke, confirmed the ongoing manhunt for Byampangi, who remains at large.
Ndyamuhaki’s elder brother, Kenneth Atukwase described the deceased as loving, hardworking, and supportive.
“Our brother loved us deeply and worked hard for our family. We are heartbroken by his untimely death. May he rest in peace,” he said during the funeral.
A mourner Barnard Tumuhimbise sued for calm and urged family members not to seek revenge.
“Our son did nothing to deserve this; God has already decided on his life. Children, do not seek revenge, for it is God who will take it on our behalf,” he said.
The Parish Priest at Rwesasi Church of Uganda, Rev Michael Asiimwe, urged mourners and football fans to manage their emotions, especially during matches.
“I love football, but because I struggle with anger, I avoid video halls for games. If you know you can’t control your anger, stay away. Find ways to manage it instead of resorting to violence,” the cleric advised.
Alliance for National Transition (ANT) party’s Kigezi region coordinator, Bonny Tumuranze, echoed this advice and cautioned against mob justice.
“We are working with police to ensure the suspect is arrested and brought to justice,” he assured the community.