Football Match Ends in Tragedy After Referee is Beaten to Death by Angry Players and Fans
A football tournament in Zambia’s Eastern Province ended in tragedy after a referee was beaten to death by angry players and supporters following a disputed decision during a match.
The incident happened on Thursday in Chipangali District during a replayed fixture between Mikango United and Leopard United at Mchenga Primary School grounds. The teams were reportedly competing for a K5,000 prize.
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Three Suspects Arrested
Eastern Province Police Commanding Officer Robertson Mweemba confirmed that three suspects had been arrested in connection with the killing of referee Donald Tonga.
According to Mweemba, the suspects were apprehended shortly after 7 pm on Friday after allegedly going into hiding following the incident.
“The suspects are assisting us with investigations as we work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the death of the referee. More updates will be given as the case progresses,” he said.
Disputed Decision Sparks Violence
Reports indicate that Tonga was officiating the match alone without assistant referees or linesmen.
Trouble reportedly began in the first half after he declined to award a foul, a decision that allegedly infuriated some Mikango United players and supporters.
Witnesses said the situation quickly escalated, with the referee allegedly attacked using fists, kicks, stones and sticks.
Tonga reportedly attempted to flee from the violent crowd but was chased down and assaulted until he collapsed.
Referee Pronounced Dead at Clinic
The injured referee was rushed to Chamasongo Clinic, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Police officers who attended the scene at the clinic reportedly found Tonga lying in a pool of blood with a deep cut on the left side of his head.
The shocking incident has sparked outrage among football followers and raised fresh concerns about violence and security at community football tournaments.
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