There will be no public presence in the stands when Kiyovu SC play their next home match against Marine, the local football governing body (Ferwafa)’s disciplinary committee has ordered.
The development comes after Kiyovu’s fans abused international referee Salma Mukansanga during the club’s league match against Gasogi United on January 20 at Bugesera stadium.
READ ALSO: Rwanda FA probes Kiyovu supporters’ insults against Mukansanga
Supporters will be able to travel with Kiyovu ahead of club’s next two away games against Rayon Sports on February 5 and Rwamagana City on February 11 but the club will be playing in empty stadium when they host Marine during the 20th match day fixture slated February 18 at Muhanga Stadium.
"The disciplinary committee has ordered Kiyovu SC to play one game with no fans in the stadium,” the federation said in a statement released on Monday adding that the decision takes effect from the day it was informed to the club.
Mukansanga, who made history last year when she became one of the first women to officiate at Fifa World Cup, was targeted by a section of angry Kiyovu supporters who insulted her at full time accusing her of unfair refereeing after their side was held to a goalless draw by Gasogi United.
During the match, Kiyovu fans repeatedly expressed their frustration with Mukansanga’s decisions, some chanting ‘you’re old, you’re old, you’re old’ towards the 34-year-old referee.
And, as she walked down the tunnel to the dressing room after the full time whistle, an angry fan ran towards her in an attempt to attack her but security guards intervened before a group of fans followed her chanting, "prostitute! Prostitute! Prostitute!".
Six of them are, according to Rwanda Investigation Bureau (RIB), in custody since Thursday, January 26, over charges of public insults and discrimination.
The six suspects include; Madina Nishimwe, Jeanne Salima, Aziz Harerimana, Hamza Nsengimana, Fatuma Icyitegetse and Abdul Basta Bigirimana.
READ ALSO: Six arrested as referee Salma Mukansanga’s case takes new twist
As investigation continues, RIB Spokesperson, Thierry Murangira, said that,"the suspects’ case files are being process for submission to the prosecution.”