SJAK condemns police attack on Kenyan photojournalist at Dandora Stadium

The Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK) has issued strong condemnation following an unprovoked attack on Daily Nation photojournalist Chris Omollo during Sunday’s Premier League fixture between Gor Mahia FC and Mara Sugar at Dandora Stadium.

Omollo, who was reportedly struck on the head by police while covering the match, lost consciousness and is now receiving medical care at Nairobi Hospital.

The incident occurred despite Omollo and his colleagues identifying themselves and cooperating with officers present at the stadium.

According to reports, authorities had directed journalists to enter through a separate gate to avoid congestion at the main entrance. However, as Omollo entered the field, an unidentified police officer struck him on the back of the head, breaking his spectacles and causing serious injury.

Omollo, who has previously undergone head surgery, required immediate hospitalisation.

SJAK President James Waindi strongly denounced the assault.

“We strongly condemn this unprovoked attack on a journalist. It is unacceptable and goes against the spirit of sport. Sports journalists play a vital role in the growth of sports in this country, and their safety while covering events must be guaranteed,” said SJAK President James Waindi.

Waindi called for swift disciplinary action against the officer involved and urged authorities, particularly the Football Kenya Federation (FKF) and the Ministry of Interior, to curb rising violence during match days. He warned that if these issues are not addressed urgently, SJAK might mobilise journalists nationwide to boycott football matches, possibly implementing a complete media blackout.

Adding to concerns about safety at Dandora Stadium, veteran sports photographer Stafford Ondego highlighted recurring risks faced by media personnel. He described how photographers and videographers are often forced to access the pitch through insecure gates, exposing them to potential theft and assault. 

SJAK has called on authorities to honour existing agreements that facilitate media access to stadiums, stressing the importance of a secure environment for journalists to perform their duties without fear of violence or intimidation.