Sports Ministry Suspends Community Football Over Security Concerns
The Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Authority (NSA) have suspended all organized community and school football competitions across the Western Area with immediate effect following recent incidents of violence and hooliganism.
The decision was announced in a press release on September 17, following a stakeholders' meeting on September 16 at the Office of National Security (ONS), convened by National Security Coordinator Abdulai Caulker. The ban comes in response to escalating youth violence linked to community tournaments, including those organized by the Central One Football Association (COFA).
Recent violence, such as clashes following a match between Kossoh Town and Kroo Town Road, resulted in loss of life and the destruction of property worth millions of Leones.
"Football and sports are generally regarded as unifying activities, but some communities and youths are using the beautiful game to cause security unrest and disrupt the normal daily activities of innocent citizens," the Ministry stated, adding that authorities "will not allow football to become a threat to National Peace and Security."
Under the directive:
All organized community and school football competitions in the Western Area are suspended until further notice.
Security agencies have been mandated to enforce the directive, with violators facing prosecution.
Informal recreational football played among friends remains permitted.
A technical committee composed of key stakeholders has been established to review existing regulations and establish guidelines for monitoring football activities before the suspension can be lifted. Officials urged the public to comply with the directive and prioritize peace and national security.
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