At least seven football players and fans of Salam FC have been arrested for allegedly assaulting and seriously injuring a senior football administrator during a South Sudan Cup match on Monday evening in Maridi County, Western Equatoria State.
Maridi County Commissioner Alfred Miiri told Radio Tamazuj that the suspects were detained after beating Bennett Bazia, the Secretary-General of the Maridi Football Sub-Association. He said the attack left Bazia with serious injuries, including head wounds and a broken tooth.
Miiri explained that the violence erupted during a South Sudan Cup match between New Nation FC and Salam FC, after points were awarded to New Nation FC. The decision reportedly angered Salam FC supporters, leading to a confrontation that turned violent.
“Seven suspects are now in police custody, a case has been opened, and investigations are ongoing,” he stated. “Bazia was flown to Juba on Tuesday morning for further medical treatment.”
Isam Hassen, the deputy chairperson of the Maridi Football Sub-Association, confirmed the incident and said tensions had risen after Salam FC player Steven Gaaniko travelled to Yambio and signed for Zamalek FC while still active in Maridi competitions.
He said the sub-association suspended the player according to football regulations, a decision that angered some players and supporters.
Hassen said that on Monday evening, a group of players confronted and attacked Secretary-General Bennett Bazia, beating him with sticks and causing head injuries and a broken tooth.
Community members have strongly condemned the attack and called for thorough investigations to ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Maridi Football Sub-Association Chairperson, Emmanuel Juma, speaking later to Radio Tamazuj, said the Secretary-General has already identified the ring leaders involved in the assault.
“Seven members have been arrested, and the suspects are now in police custody,” Juma said. “Football is not violence. It is for unity, peace, love, and togetherness. People should stop attacking and beating each other.”
Neither the Yambio Football Association, led by Joseph Ndepi, nor the South Sudan Football Association, headed by Francis Amin, has addressed the matter.