Over 400 Arsenal fans in Amuru district, Uganda, are battling stomach complications after consuming food suspected to have been laced with poison. The incident occurred on September 23rd, 2023, at a celebratory meal organized by the fans to mark Arsenal’s victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield Cup.
The affected fans experienced severe stomach pains and diarrhea shortly after eating the meal, which was prepared at Lajalula Trading Centre, Lajalula Parish, Lakang Sub County. Local leaders were also present at the celebration.
Stephen Ingeyo, one of the affected fans, said he was surprised to develop stomach complications after attending the party. He sought treatment at a local clinic, where he is still receiving care. Michael Odora, an Arsenal supporter and Chairperson of the local business community in Lajalula Trading Centre, is also undergoing treatment for the same condition.
Odora suspects that the food, which was cooked in an open setting, may have been maliciously poisoned by someone with ill intentions. He said that nearly everyone who ate from the meat, including women and children, is experiencing stomach pain and diarrhea.
Francis Odida, the Chairperson of Lajalula Parish and also a victim of the food incident, said that a meeting was held at Lajalula Trading Centre to determine who might be responsible for the suspected food contamination. According to Odida, there was a lot of foam in the food shortly after it was cooked, but the fans didn’t pay much attention to it. He emphasized that there have been no casualties reported, though many people are still suffering from the condition.
Odida further revealed that their investigation led them to a woman whom the community members had decided to expel due to her questionable actions in this incident.
The police are investigating the incident, but no arrests have been made at this time.
