Essau, North Bank Region – October 3, 2024
The Essau Youth Sports and Development Association (EYSA) has imposed an indefinite ban and a fine of D25,000 on Rahman FC following violent incidents during a Nawettan League match against Quarreh FC on September 28, 2024.
In an official statement released by the EYSA, Rahman FC players, officials, and fans engaged in violent acts after the match, which included the assault of match officials, vandalism of property, and disturbances that endangered the safety of referees, spectators, and association members.
Following an investigation, EYSA confirmed that several Rahman FC players and officials were directly involved in the violence. Although players such as Babucarr Ndong, Ebrima Jawara, Modou Drammeh, Buba Chorr, and Assan Masaquoi were present but did not engage in misconduct, while other registered players were absent from the match day squad.
However, other players, including Ali Njie and Alasana Jallow, were identified as key offenders responsible for tearing the goal net, initiating stone-throwing, and attacking match officials.
Key Findings:
- Player and Fan Misconduct: Rahman FC players, such as Ali Njie and Alasana Jallow, along with fans Wuyeh Sonko and Saikou Njie, were involved in vandalizing the goal net. Team officials Momodou Bah and Ali Kadeh led the violent stoning resulted in damage to the deaf students’ vehicle.
- Referee Assault: Rahman FC officials, including Essa Bah, Ali Kadeh, and Momodou Bah, attacked the central referee. Audio evidence also implicated player Samba Gaye in inciting violence against the referee.
- Further Violations: Amadou Bah was responsible for breaking the corner flag, and audio evidence indicated that certain individuals associated with Rahman FC sought to disrupt the tournament, aiming to cause its cancellation.
In light of the above findings, Rahman FC’s actions were found to be in violation of several articles in the tournament’s rules, specifically Articles 12 (B, D, E, I, and M).
Consequences for Rahman FC:
- Rahman FC have been indefinitely banned from all competitions organized by EYSA, effective immediately.
- The club has been fined D25,000 and must cover damages, including a D2,000 payment to repair the students’ vehicle.
Broader Impact:
Due to Rahman FC’s misconduct, their abandoned match against Yusupha Sonko FC (halted due to rain) has been awarded to Yusupha Sonko FC with a 1-0 scoreline. Additionally, Rahman FC is held accountable for all damages caused, with potential legal action looming if the club fails to comply with these sanctions. The North Bank Regional Football Association (NBRFA) has been requested to enforce the ban across all affiliated competitions to safeguard referees and ensure their protection.
Although Rahman FC submitted an apology letter acknowledging their role in the incident prior to EYSA’s decision, this admission did not absolve them from the penalties imposed.
Penalties for Quarreh FC:
Quarreh FC habe been fined D1,000 for violating Article 12(M) of the competition rules, and one of their supporters, Sheriffo Saidy, known as “Tamanju,” has been formally warned to refrain from inciting violence in the future.
Next Steps:
According to the football association, the case has been reported to the Barra Police Station for further criminal investigation and appropriate action against individuals involved in unlawful activities during the match.
List of Banned Rahman FC Players and Officials:
- Players: Alagie Jobe, Lamin Jallow, Cherno Bah, Samba Gaye, Lamarana Jallow, Amadou Bah, Sulay Charreh, Tabora Marr, Ebrima Jallow, Sulayman Jallow, Ali Njie, Muhammed Cham, and Alasana Jallow.
- Team Officials and Coaches: Musa Sillah, Essa Bah, Momodou Bah, and Ali Kadeh.
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