BUNGOMA, KENYA – The East African football fraternity is in mourning following the tragic death of a young referee who was fatally assaulted during a local tournament in Bungoma County.
The victim, identified as Augustine Wenani Wanyonyi, 26, succumbed to severe head injuries on Boxing Day, just two days after being attacked by angry fans during a festive match.
A Festive Match Turns Into a Crime Scene
The incident occurred on December 24, 2025, at the Chesikaki FYM Primary School grounds in Cheptais. Wanyonyi was officiating a high-stakes match involving local sides Orlando RC, Chesikaki FC, and Kimabole FC.
The atmosphere, which began as a celebration of the festive season, turned violent after Wanyonyi issued a red card to a Kimabole FC player for a foul. Displeased with the decision, supporters of the club stormed the field, demanding an explanation.
According to a police report obtained by Mfalme News, the chaos took a deadly turn when a man identified as Nick Watela Namiti, 27, allegedly struck Wanyonyi from behind. The referee was hit on the back of the head with a concealed object before the suspect fled the scene.
A Desperate Race Against Time
Wanyonyi was later found at his home, unable to speak and in a deteriorating state. His family and friends embarked on a frantic search for medical intervention:
He was first rushed to Kimilili Hospital.
As his condition worsened, he was transferred to Life Care Hospital in Bungoma.
Doctors finally referred him to Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH) in Eldoret for specialized neurological care.
Tragically, Wanyonyi was pronounced dead at approximately 3:00 PM (EAT) on December 26, 2025, while in transit to the hospital in Eldoret.
Justice and Calls for Reform
Police in Cheptais have confirmed that the suspect, Nick Watela Namiti, has been arrested. Authorities have issued a stern condemnation of the incident, warning that “criminal acts disguised as fan passion” will not be tolerated.
The body of the deceased is currently at Sannte Private Hospital Mortuary in Kimilili, awaiting a post-mortem to determine the official cause of death.
