CAF Fines Football Kenya Federation KSh 2.5 Million Over Security Lapses at CHAN 2024 Opener

CAF has fined the Football Kenya Federation KSh 2.5 million after multiple security breaches marred the CHAN 2024 opener between Kenya and DR Congo at Kasarani Stadium.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a fine of KSh 2.5 million on the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) following a string of serious security breaches during the CHAN 2024 opening match between Kenya and the Democratic Republic of Congo at Kasarani Stadium.

According to an official report by the CAF Security Officer, the match, held on Sunday, was marred by multiple lapses that compromised the safety of fans, staff, and dignitaries. Among the most alarming incidents was an unauthorised stampede at Gate 11, where inadequate crowd control measures led to chaos and disorder at the stadium entrance.

The report further cited the dangerous presence of a motorbike manoeuvring through a dense crowd, putting spectators at risk. Additionally, fires were reportedly ignited by fans behind the stands at Block 18, posing a significant hazard within the stadium premises.

CAF officials also faced obstruction, as security personnel allegedly denied access to the VVIP section to both CAF staff and protocol officers. The situation was compounded when a member of the South African President’s Close Protection Unit was similarly barred entry, raising diplomatic concerns.

In a particularly troubling incident, a private security guard from Falcon Security is accused of assaulting a CAF commercial staff member and a representative from one of the event’s sponsors. CAF has deemed the matter a breach of both safety regulations and professional standards.

As a result, CAF has not only levied the fine on FKF but also demanded immediate improvements to stadium security operations in future matches. The confederation emphasised the need for stricter protocols, better coordination with law enforcement, and reinforced staff training to ensure the safety of all stakeholders during football events.

The FKF is yet to issue an official response to the sanction.