CAF has imposed an additional $50,000 fine on Kenya for safety and security breaches during the Harambee Stars’ CHAN 2024 match against Morocco.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has fined the Football Kenya Federation an additional $ 50,000, close to Ksh 6.5 million, following the breaches that occurred during Harambee Stars’ match against Morocco.
In the match, Harambee Stars secured a 1-0 victory over the two-time champions, but what happened beyond the pitch is what placed Kenya in hot soup.
CAF cited several serious security breaches, including unauthorised access by ticketless spectators and holders of government-issued physical tickets.
Concerns were also raised about the use of tear gas and flash grenades, reports of live ammunition being fired near spectators, violent incidents, unsafe vehicle movement, inadequate police response, lack of medical incident reports, insufficient communication, and the absence of CCTV coverage at key entry points.
In a statement released to the public, the CAF Disciplinary Board announced that it found Kenya guilty of multiple safety and security breaches during Harambee Stars match against Morocco at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani on Sunday, August 10.
“The Disciplinary Board found Kenya guilty and imposed a fine of USD 50,000. Kenya was warned that continued failure to meet CAF safety and security requirements may lead to the relocation of Kenya’s National Team matches to an alternative venue,” the statement further noted.
“Kenya was advised to increase security measures by deploying sufficient personnel within the perimeter of the stadium as well as adhering to the road closures on match days.”
Kenya vs DR Congo: Millions Kenya Was Fined for Breaking CAF Rules
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CAF also fined FKF $20,000 (Ksh 2.5 million) following security lapses during Kenya’s 1-0 victory over DR Congo at the Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.
CAF then issued a stern warning that further breaches during the tournament, co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, would result in more severe sanctions.
A report from the CAF Security Officer detailed several violations of Articles 82 and 83 of the CAF Disciplinary Code, including a stampede at Gate 11, unauthorised access to restricted security areas, and a motorcycle driving dangerously through the crowd.
The report also noted fans lighting fires behind the stands and security personnel denying access to the VVIP area for CAF staff and protocol officers, including a member of the South African President’s security detail.
CAF imposed three separate fines on the FKF, including $5,000 for the stampede and unauthorised entry, $10,000 for obstructing and assaulting CAF officials and guests, and an official warning regarding the fires. The FKF has 60 days to pay the fines.
In a separate incident stemming from an earlier CHAN 2024 match between Morocco and Angola, CAF also fined the FKF $5,000, with half of that amount suspended, provided there are no further violations during the tournament.
In a related incident, the Tanzania Football Federation (TFF) was also fined $10,000 for security breaches during their match against Burkina Faso at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium.
Kenya vs Zambia: New Rules Introduced By CAF
Following the breaches, CAF has tightened security measures for the upcoming match between Harambee Stars and Zambia.
This is the second time in two weeks that Kenya, co-host of the tournament, has faced disciplinary action from CAF.
Attendance at the 48,000-seat Moi International Sports Centre (Kasarani Stadium) will be capped at 27,000 for Sunday’s Group A clash.
CAF warned that future matches could be moved from Kasarani if organisers do not address the ongoing security concerns.
In a statement, CAF emphasised the importance of these measures to “protect the competition’s integrity, ensure fan safety, and uphold confidence in Kenya’s commitment to the tournament.”
Fans without tickets for the Harambee Stars vs Zambia match can watch the game at official Fan Zones, starting this Sunday. The Local Organising Committee (LOC) announced this initiative to provide alternative viewing options.
Ticket holders are also required to arrive at the stadium five hours before kick-off. This measure, developed with Kenyan security agencies, aims to prevent a repeat of previous security breaches.
During Kenya’s 1-0 victory over Morocco, numerous fans, including some without tickets, forced entry into the stadium. Only electronic tickets will be accepted. Printed tickets will not be valid.
(pulse sports)