Kenya: Three Arrested In Football Match-Fixing Probe

Three people, including a Russian, have been arrested in an investigation into a suspected match-fixing syndicate in Kenyan leagues, according to police and the national football federation on Saturday.

The arrests come as Kenya's leagues face increased scrutiny for match-fixing and player corruption in Football Kenya Federation-sanctioned competitions (FKF).

FKF chief Barry Otieno said in a statement that one Kenyan and two foreigners were arrested for being "involved in issuing bribes and match-fixing."

He did not reveal their names.

“Due to the sensitivity of the case, FKF will not be commenting further on the matter until investigations are concluded.” 

According to police, one of the three arrested on Friday night planned to influence a league game between Nairobi City Stars and former champions Sofapaka.

"The men will appear in court on Monday," Kasarani divisional director of criminal investigations Jimmy Kimaru told news media. 

Otieno stated that the federation was committed to ensuring the sport's integrity and was collaborating with local and international law enforcement to prosecute the individuals.

Kenyan leagues have been suspended in recent months as part of a national investigation into match-fixing in football for betting purposes.

Two players from Nairobi-based Mathare United were barred from participating in any football-related activities last month pending the completion of investigations into their suspected involvement in a match-fixing syndicate.