Police in Jinja city, Uganda have detained at least 20 Arsenal FC fans after taking part in a trophy parade on the street following Sunday’s massive victory over Manchester United FC.
The north London side beat United 3-2 with a late winner from Eddie Nketiah securing a huge three points at the Emirates. The win for Mikel Arteta’s side leaves them five points clear at the top with. a game in hand, exactly half way through the season.
A day after the action, police intercepted a group of joyful Arsenal fans who were parading through Jinja city in a convoy of around five vehicles, and one was carrying a trophy that he’d purchased at a local store.
One of the fans said a police patrol vehicle pulled up in front of them and asked each one of them to disembark and climb the patrol car which was destined for Jinja Police Station.
James Mubi, the regional police boss said he is yet to review the fans’ charges but wondered why they were celebrating when only half of the matches in the season had been played.
“What would happen if an altercation with rival fans broke out? They did not inform police to provide security for their procession,” Mr Mubi said, dismissing the suggestion that the arrest was linked to the frequent arrest of members of an opposition party who also wear red.
Rights groups say the Public Order Management Act has given police discretionary powers that have been used to stifle citizens’ rights.
The fans were released after 24 hours in detention and they plan to obtainn permission to parade when their team win the league.