Kenyan Premier League Independent Disciplinary and Complaints Committee have returned a not guilty verdict in a case in which Ulinzi Stars striker Stephen Waruru was accused of celebrating a goal against Gor Mahia provocatively leading to fans unrest.
In the league match played at Kisumu’s Moi Stadium 2nd July Waruru scored 89th minute equalizer and celebrated by removing his shirt, but from testimonies, he did not make any obscene gestures to the opposing fans contrary to the laws of the game.
He was yellow carded for removing his shirt according to the match officials records.
The late heartbreaker sparked rage from the home fans, who accused the deadly striker of provokingly celebrating towards them.
The fans hurled objects onto the field leading to 15 minutes stoppage before the police used teargas to restore order.
Gor were 2-0 up at half time but watched in dismay as Waruru reduced the deficit in the 73rd minute before restoring parity a minute to full time.
“In the Tribunal’s view, he celebration by Waruru cannot be termed to be provocative hence the charge against him must therefore fail,” the ruling reads partly.
Gor were nonetheless found guilty of failing to control their fans and were handed Kshs 200,000 fine for the chaos.
They were further warned of more severe consequences for future fans trouble including docking of points.
“That above amount should be paid to Kenyan Premier League within thirty days from the date of this ruling otherwise to be recovered by KPL,”
“The tribunal will henceforth consider docking 3 league points from any team whose fans will be found guilty of engaging in acts of hooliganism,” the ruling reads.
Last year Gor were docked three points for an almost similar incident against Tusker eventually costing them the league title which went to the Brewers.
