Ingwe ready to take firm action against hooligans

Yesterday at 06:00 AM

AFC Leopards have vowed to ban those supporters who perpetrated acts of violence at the Kinoru Stadium on Sunday following the 2-0 defeat to Ulinzi Stars.

Ingwe head coach Tomas Trucha was assaulted during a pitch invasion and had to be escorted off the pitch by security as objects were being thrown at him.

The Nairobi giants expressed its thanks to the fans for making the long trip north to Meru, but condemned the actions of the hooligans involved in the confrontation with Trucha.

Leopards also revealed that some affiliated partners have raised concerns about the unsavoury incident, which could put jeopardise several deals.

“On behalf of AFC Leopards Sports Club, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our loyal fans who traveled to Meru to support the team,” the club said in a statement.

“Your dedication is both recognised and deeply appreciated, and it’s for you that we continuously strive to build a stronger, more successful team.

“Regrettably, after Ulinzi scored their first goal, the atmosphere took an unfortunate and hostile turn. Officials became targets of 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.

“This incident is unacceptable, and as AFC Leopards management, we condemn these unwarranted actions in the strongest terms possible.

“To our fans, let this serve as a clear reminder: you are the heart of this club, but with that honor comes responsibilities. If you have concerns or grievances, we have well-established channels where these can be raised constructively.

“Hooliganism, violence, and intimidation have no place in football, and AFC Leopards will not tolerate them under any circumstances.

“Our brand, like AFC Leopards, and the brands of our esteemed partners are at risk if we allow such behavior to return to our midst. In fact, our partners are concerned with the turn of events.

“Furthermore, just as we have taken disciplinary action against players for misconduct in the past, we shall apply the same standard here. Any fan found guilty of participating in these acts of violence will face a BAN from stadia and club activities.”