A tragic incident occurred in Uganda on Wednesday, December 4, when an Arsenal fan was shot dead while celebrating his team’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United.
The victim, identified as 30-year-old John Ssenyonga, was killed by a security guard during a post-match celebration at a restaurant in Lukaya, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) from Uganda’s capital, Kampala.
The shooting took place after the match, as jubilant Arsenal supporters gathered to celebrate the victory.
According to local reports, the restaurant manager, irritated by the noise from the celebrating crowd, instructed the security guard to intervene. However, the crowd reportedly ignored the warning, continuing to celebrate loudly.
A local journalist, Farish Magembe, explained that the situation escalated when the restaurant owner switched off the power, further angering the fans.
Witnesses said the security guard then opened fire, shooting several times into the crowd.
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Ssenyonga was fatally wounded and died at the scene, while another Arsenal fan, Lawrence Mugejera, was injured and rushed to the hospital.
Following the incident, both the guard and the restaurant manager fled the scene. Ugandan police have since launched a manhunt for the two suspects.
Regional police spokesman Twaha Kasirye confirmed that a gun was recovered at the scene and condemned the incident.
“We ask anyone with information that can help the police bring the suspect to book to speak up,” Kasirye said, urging fans to control their excitement during celebrations.
This tragic event has shocked the community, raising concerns about the safety of celebrations and the consequences of escalating tensions in public spaces.