Ex-New Mathare goalkeeper killed by mob in Pangani after alleged phone theft
A former New Mathare FC goalkeeper, Eric Wafula, popularly known as Jagoal, was killed by an angry mob in Pangani, Nairobi last week after allegedly stealing a mobile phone.
A former New Mathare FC goalkeeper was killed by an angry mob in Pangani, Nairobi last week after reportedly stealing a mobile phone.
Eric Wafula, known in footballing circles as Jagoal or Norlan, was reportedly involved in the incident alongside an unidentified friend. Both were subjected to mob justice shortly after the alleged theft, resulting in their instant deaths.
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Police subsequently ferried their remains to Nairobi Funeral Home, where they were registered as unknown persons.
New Mathare FC, which competes in the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) National Division Two Eastern Zone has since confirmed Wafula's demise in a Facebook post.
"We are saddened by the passing of our former goalkeeper Eric Wafula. Shine on your way Jagoal. Rest in Peace," the statement seen by The Eastleigh Voice, reads.
Media reports indicate that this was not the first time Wafula found himself in such a precarious situation.
Police claim he had previously been rescued from angry crowds during similar incidents. Additional police reports indicate that his reputation as a talented footballer had, on past occasions, also played a role in sparing him from mob justice.
Wafula was once seen as a bright prospect in Kenyan football, admired for his sharp reflexes and confident goalkeeping. He launched his career through the Mathare Youth Sports Association (MYSA) and later joined New Mathare FC, where his talent stood out.
Over time, however, his presence in mainstream football faded, and he was later spotted playing for lesser-known teams.
Wafula is not the only footballer to have run into trouble with the law. Several recent cases have highlighted the troubling trend of Kenyan footballers turning to crime, often due to economic hardship, lack of support systems and exposure to negative influences.
In May 2024, for instance, former Kisumu All-Stars player Byron Billy Owuor was arrested in connection to a robbery and murder in Kondele, while in 2022, National Super League player Zacharia Mwakisua was detained alongside four individuals at the Likoni Ferry for alleged drug trafficking.
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