Manchester United fan Benjamin Okello has died in Uganda after an altercation with an Arsenal supporter, reportedly after an argument over a Premier League match.
The Arsenal fan, who allegedly struck Okello with a stick during the dispute, is now being searched for by Ugandan police, according to The Daily Monitor.
Altercation Sparks After Tense Football Match
The incident happened at Kyobugombe Trading Centre in the Kaharo Sub County of Uganda’s Kabale District.
Okello and the Arsenal supporter were said to have watched a Premier League match between Arsenal and Liverpool, which finished 2-2.
Okello started celebrating when Liverpool equalised in the 81st minute, which he is alleged to have provoked the Arsenal fan.
Okello is said to have thrown popcorn at an Arsenal fan, and it sparked a tense confrontation.
Police Response and Fatal Outcome
The local chairperson, Edmond Tumwesigye, recounted the incident: “The Manchester United fan, now dead, started jubilating in a video hall… The scuffle started in a video hall; when Liverpool scored, he [then] threw popcorn at the Arsenal fan.”
It was after the match that the Arsenal fan is believed to have struck Okello, who was injured and died despite medical intervention.
Police are yet to locate the suspect, but Kabale District Police Commander Joseph Bakaleke confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with police questioning witnesses to find out what exactly happened.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, and Bakaleke has urged Okello’s family to remain calm.
