Violence Erupts at Gusii Stadium as Gor Mahia vs Shabana FC Match Leaves 72 Injured

A Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League match between Gor Mahia and Shabana FC at Gusii Stadium on Sunday was marred by violence, resulting in at least 72 injuries and prompting an official investigation by the FKF. 

The highly anticipated ‘Nyanza derby’ was plagued by escalating tensions both before and during the game, exacerbated by the stadium's exceeding its capacity. The Football Kenya Federation has strongly condemned the violence and promised decisive disciplinary actions upon the conclusion of investigations into the events surrounding the unrest. Medical facilities across Kisii County, including Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital, RAM Hospital, Hema Hospital, and Christamarianne Hospital, treated the injured fans.

Trouble began hours before kickoff as thousands of supporters converged on Gusii Stadium. By early afternoon, the venue was filled beyond its capacity, forcing many fans to stand. The swelling crowd strained security personnel, and by 1 p.m., the situation had become critical as more supporters tried to enter the stadium despite capacity constraints. The pressure led to a stampede at the entrance, resulting in injuries that required immediate medical attention.

Inside the stadium, the atmosphere remained chaotic. Video footage showed physical confrontations in the stands, although it remains unclear whether the clashes involved rival supporters or fans from the same teams. Tensions spilt onto the pitch even before the players began their warm-up session, with projectiles hurled across the stadium. The FKF issued a statement shortly after the game, condemning the disorder and emphasising the importance of fan, player, and official well-being. In a strongly worded statement, FKF President Hussein Mohammed expresses deep concern about the violence.

“The Football Kenya Federation is deeply concerned about the violence witnessed during the FKF Premier League match between Gor Mahia and Shabana FC at Gusii Stadium. Football must remain a sport that unites people, not one that endangers lives,” the statement reads.

Mohammed assures the public that the FKF is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation. “We are working closely with the authorities to establish the circumstances that led to the unrest. Once investigations are concluded, decisive disciplinary action will be taken,” he added.

Medical facilities across Kisii County reported treating 72 individuals for injuries. Most of the injuries were minor, and no fatalities were reported. Authorities have urged the public to rely on verified sources for information and avoid spreading false claims about casualties. The decision to host the match at Gusii Stadium had been contentious. Some Gor Mahia supporters had advocated for moving the game to a larger venue, citing concerns over inadequate infrastructure. 

Shabana fans resisted, arguing that their home ground should remain the official venue. As investigations continue, both Gor Mahia and Shabana FC could face serious repercussions if their supporters are found guilty of misconduct. Possible sanctions include fines, stadium bans, or restrictions on away match attendance, depending on the severity of the findings. Experts believe travel bans, particularly for away games, are likely if evidence confirms fan behaviour contributed significantly to the unrest. 

The FKF has vowed to protect the integrity of Kenyan football and prevent similar incidents in the future. Despite the off-pitch drama, Gor Mahia secured a narrow victory with a 79th-minute goal by Sylvester Owino. The win bolstered Gor Mahia’s title hopes, but the result was overshadowed by the disorder that marred the event. The chaotic scenes at Gusii Stadium have reignited discussions on stadium safety and crowd management at Kenyan football venues.