CAF Sanctions Kenya’s LOC over CHAN 2024 Security Breaches
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed strict penalties on Kenya’s Local Organising Committee (LOC) for CHAN 2024 after a series of security breakdowns marred the Kenya–Morocco match at Kasarani Stadium.
In a letter dated August 11, 2025, CAF highlighted repeated failures in crowd control, ticketing, and safety compliance — issues it said persisted despite earlier warnings.
The most serious incidents included ticketless fans and government-issued paper ticket holders forcing their way past stadium gates, breaches of the perimeter fence, and chaos at exit points. Initial control was also lost at the Ngomongo roundabout, allowing uncontrolled entry through multiple gates.
CAF reported the use of tear gas and flash grenades inside the stadium vicinity, claims of live ammunition being discharged near spectators, and violent stone-throwing targeting security officers. In addition, unsafe vehicle movements in fan areas created further hazards.
The governing body criticised the inadequate police response, the absence of formal medical incident records despite reported injuries, and the lack of essential communication tools such as CCTV at key entry points.
“These incidents present unacceptable risks to spectators, staff, and the integrity of the tournament,” CAF stated.
Tough New Measures
For all upcoming CHAN matches in Kenya, CAF has ordered; Stadium capacity capped at 60% (about 27,000 fans), Electronic ticket holders only — thermal tickets banned and a nationwide media campaign promoting safety protocols and entry requirements.
CAF warned that failure to comply could lead to harsher punishments, including moving fixtures to neutral venues.
The letter, signed by CAF Director of Tournaments and Events Samson Adamu, called for urgent action to “protect the competition’s integrity, ensure fan safety, and maintain confidence in Kenya’s hosting commitment.”
