Kiyovu fans who 'abused' top woman referee released
Monday, February 06, 2023
Six Kiyovu Sports Club supporters who were in custody suspected to have abused international referee Salma Rhadia Mukansanga, have been released. Olivier Mugwiza.

Prosecution on Monday confirmed the release of six Kiyovu Sports Club supporters who were in custody suspected to have abused international referee Salma Rhadia Mukansanga.

Spokesperson Faustin Nkusi confirmed the development to The New Times adding that investigation on the case is still ongoing.

Also Read: Rwanda FA probes Kiyovu supporters’ insults against Mukansanga

"The Prosecution found that there is no reason to continue our investigation while they are in detention. Meanwhile, the investigation continues,” he said.

Nkusi disclosed that the prosecution will give its final conclusion on the investigation findings within the period prescribed by the law.

The suspects namely namely Madina Nishimwe, Jeanne Salima, Aziz Harerimana, Hamza Nsengimana, Fatuma Icyitegetse and Abdul Basta Bigirimana, were in custody since January 26 charged with public insults and discrimination against referee Mukansanga.

The Rwandan international referee, who made history last year when she became one of the first women to officiate at the FIFA World Cup, was targeted by a section of angry Kiyovu supporters who insulted her at the full time accusing her of unfair refereeing after their side was held to a goalless draw by Gasogi United on January 20 at Bugesera stadium.

Also Read: Prosecution takes over Kiyovu supporters’ case

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.

Also Read: Kiyovu regret Mukansanga insults, vow to ban involved supporters

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!”