A football match that marked a historic moment for Migori Youth FC was briefly overshadowed by a security incident after a man suspected of impersonating a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer was arrested while allegedly carrying a firearm at Sony Green Stadium in Awendo, Migori County.
The incident occurred on Sunday, June 7, during a National Super League match between Migori Youth FC and Equity Bank FC.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspect was found in possession of a loaded CZ pistol containing ten rounds of ammunition.
Police officers and other security personnel were deployed at the stadium to ensure the safety of players, officials, and supporters attending the important fixture.
During the match, the suspect reportedly attempted to gain access to the VIP section, an area reserved for dignitaries and invited guests.
Authorities said the man was seen trying to force his way into the restricted area despite not having authorization to enter. Security officers moved in to stop him, but the situation quickly became tense when he allegedly produced a firearm.
The DCI stated that law enforcement officers at the venue responded immediately and managed to disarm the suspect before the situation could escalate further. Order was restored, allowing the match to continue without major disruption.
Following his arrest, officers conducted a search and recovered the CZ pistol loaded with ten rounds of ammunition. Preliminary investigations also revealed that the suspect was allegedly posing as a member of the Kenya Defence Forces at the time of the incident.
Detectives established that the firearm did not belong to the suspect. The weapon was traced to a licensed civilian firearm holder. Authorities later arrested the firearm owner after he reportedly admitted that he had handed over the gun to the suspect.
Police say the firearm holder is being investigated for allegedly allowing an unauthorized person to possess a firearm, an offence that carries serious legal consequences. Both suspects remain in police custody as detectives continue with investigations to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Despite the security scare, the football match ended on a positive note for the home side. Migori Youth FC secured a 2-1 victory over Equity Bank FC, a result that saw the club finish at the top of the National Super League standings.
The win also earned Migori Youth automatic promotion to the FKF Premier League.
Next season, the club will compete against some of Kenya’s biggest football teams, including Gor Mahia, AFC Leopards and Kenya Police FC.
