Arsenal fan killed for celebrating win over Man United in Uganda

An Arsenal fan in Uganda was tragically shot dead by a security guard while celebrating the team’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United, local reports suggest.

The incident occurred in Lukaya town, approximately 100 km (62 miles) from Kampala, at a restaurant where fans had gathered to watch the match. Another supporter sustained injuries during the incident.

The altercation reportedly took place toward the end of the match, in which Arsenal secured victory with goals from Jurriën Timber and William Saliba.

According to witnesses, the restaurant’s manager became agitated by the noise from the jubilant fans and instructed the security guard to intervene. When fans ignored warnings to quiet down, the manager allegedly cut the power, escalating tensions.

The victim, identified as 30-year-old John Ssenyonga, was pronounced dead at the scene. Another fan, Lawrence Mugejera, a longtime Arsenal supporter, was hospitalized with injuries.

This marks the second football-related tragedy in Uganda in recent months.

In October, a 22-year-old man named Benjamin Okello was killed following an argument with an Arsenal fan over the team’s 2-2 draw with Liverpool in Kyobugombe Trading Centre.

Local journalist Farish Magembe told the BBC that the incident highlights rising tensions among football fans in the country, fueled by passionate rivalries and heated debates over match outcomes.