Football Fan Beaten to Death in Dowa for Celebrating Rival Goal

Police at Mponela in Dowa District have arrested a 31-year-old man, Luke James, for allegedly murdering his friend over a football celebration.

Dowa Police Spokespersono Macpatson Msadala, has confirmed the sad development and identified the deceased as Austin Kayera, aged 35, from Kapichira Village, under Traditional Authority Chakhaza in the district.

Msadala reported that the incident occurred on Sunday during a football match between Magantha and Changunda teams. When Magantha scored a goal, Kayera began celebrating on the side of Changunda supporters. This act did not sit well with the Changunda fans, who chased Kayera until they caught him. During the altercation, James allegedly took a hoe handle and struck Kayera on the head.

After returning home, Kayera informed his relatives that he was not feeling well. He was then taken to Madisi Health Centre, from where he was referred to Mtengowanthenga Hospital and later to Kamuzu Central Hospital, where he passed away on Monday.

The police have since arrested James and are continuing with investigations to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.