Arsenal fans arrested by Gunners-mad police chief for celebrating Man Utd win in Uganda

On Jan 24, 2023

At least eight Arsenal fans in Uganda have been arrested after celebrating the side’s 3-2 Premier League win over rivals Manchester United.

The Gunners scored an emphatic last gasp winner courtesy of Eddie Nketiah to spark jubilant scenes at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. The victory ensured three points and a five point gap separating Mikel Arteta’s side from second-place Manchester City, with a game in hand to spare.

And thousands of miles away in the Ugandan city Jinga, a group of fans wearing the club’s red and white jersey took to the streets the following Monday morning to celebrate.

They travelled in a convoy of five vehicles, with one fan even carrying a symbolic trophy bought at a local store. But their celebrations were halted when police intercepted them and arrested at least eight of their party.

Police claimed the fans did not have a permit to hold the procession, making it a public order offence. But Arsenal supporter Baker Kasule reportedly said: “I don’t know what we have done but we were simply celebrating our victory over rivals Manchester United.”

Arsenal secured a win over Man Utd to boost their title hopes
(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Regional police boss and self-declared Arsenal supporter James Mubi was not convinced. The police chief told the BBC he had not reviewed the fans’ charges but questioned why they were celebrating when only half of the season’s matches had been played.

Mubi said: “What would happen if an altercation with rival fans broke out? They did not inform police to provide security for their procession.”

The police claimed there was another motive behind the gathering
(Image: @NBSportUg / Twitter)

He went on to dismiss the suggestion that the arrest was linked to the frequent arrest of members of an opposition party who also wear red.

Mubi also suggested there was ulterior motive in the group taking to the streets, saying: “First of all, you know I am an Arsenal fan. But after bringing them to the police [station], they don’t know the basics about Arsenal.

“Because when we asked about the unbeaten run, they said it was in 2007. We have to find the motive.”