Police in Kisii County have assured football fans of adequate security ahead of the highly anticipated match between Shabana FC and Gor Mahia FC, scheduled for Gusii Stadium Sunday.
Speaking after a security meeting with relevant stakeholders at the stadium in Kisii town, Kisii Central Sub-County police commander, Elly Ng’etich said they had put in place adequate security measures ahead of the game.
“We have deployed officers from the Kenya Police Service, Administration Police and the General Service Unit (GSU) in different sections within the town and the stadium to ensure we have a very peaceful game,” noted Ng’etich.
He added the traffic police will also be in place to ensure smooth flow of transport in Kisii town by directing vehicles to the designated parking areas.
Shabana FC Secretary General Elizaphan Kerama confirmed that all the requisite plans had been put in place to ensure the match kicks off as scheduled.
Kerama urged the fans to turn up in large numbers to cheer their respective teams, adding that the two football clubs had agreed to work together to ensure the game was played in a conducive environment.
Gor Mahia’s Administrative Secretary, Ronald Ngala urged fans to arrive early, buy tickets and proceed to the designated sitting areas as advised by the officials, who will be stationed at the different points inside the stadium.
“We are sharing a sponsor, SportPesa, and this is a Nyanza derby, we do not want any animosity, even as we prepare for a memorable match today,” Ngala said.
Last season, the match between the two teams was marred with chaos at the same stadium, with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) reporting that more than 70 fans received treatment for various injuries.
This incident initially prompted the Federation to shift tomorrow’s game to Moi International Stadium, Kasarani, Nairobi, citing security concerns.
However, after officials from both clubs met with FKF, it was agreed that the game would proceed at Shabana’s home ground, Gusii Stadium.
Gor Mahia, who narrowly won the last fixture 1-0 when both teams met, head into the game with confidence after they thrashed Kariobangi Sharks 4-1 earlier in the week.
By Mercy Osongo
