Freetown, 14th September, 2026 – The Western Area Football Association (WAFA) has, with immediate effect, suspended the COFA League following acts of violence that occurred following Saturday’s match between Kossoh Tong vs. Krootown Road, culminating in further violence, loss of lives and destruction of property within the Krootown Road community on Sunday, 13th September, 2026.
“The region considers these developments a serious affront to football, public order and the safety of persons and property. Football must never be permitted to become a catalyst for violence or a platform for reprisal,” according to the notice. WAFA shall cause a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incidents and will take appropriate regulatory and disciplinary measures.
WAFA noted the indefinite postponement by COFA of the scheduled fixture between Kossoh Tong and Fourah Bay; however, given the gravity and prevailing circumstances, the Association stated that measure, standing alone, is wholly insufficient to address the situation now confronting the Association. “The circumstances demand a broader and decisive intervention by WAFA in the interest of sanity, security and preservation of life,” the notice states.
As warned in the notice, “Until otherwise directed by WAFA formally, no COFA fixture shall be played.”
WAFA called upon participants and community stakeholders to remain calm and exercise restraint, stating that the sanctity of human life takes precedence over football.
