The Investigatory Chamber of the Federation of Uganda Football Associations Ethics and Disciplinary Committee has announced provisional suspensions for several individuals following allegations of match-fixing involving a Uganda Premier League fixture.

The match under investigation was played on 21 December 2024 between Kitara FC and Express FC.

According to FUFA, the probe was triggered by a betting integrity report from FIFA which raised suspicions that the game may have been manipulated for betting purposes.

The report allegedly suggested that there had been prior knowledge the fixture would end in a heavy defeat for Express FC, with the team expected to concede at least five goals.

Kitara defeated Express FC 7-0 with George Ssenkaaba scored a hat-trick, Jude Ssemugabi scored a brace, while Fred Amaku and David Ndihabwe netted a goal each.

Preliminary findings from the investigation claim that former player Mike Mutyaba coordinated the alleged scheme together with Ivan Katende, who has previously been linked to match-fixing investigations in Ugandan football.

The two are also said to have worked with Express FC Chief Executive Officer Ashraf Miiro in the suspected arrangement.

Investigators further claim that betting accounts connected to Katende reportedly placed wagers on the match through a betting company based in Tanzania.

The accounts are said to have won large sums of money, although the betting operator later blocked the payouts after detecting suspected irregularities.

The inquiry has also pointed to the possible involvement of Express FC players Emmanuel Kalyowa and Ashraf Mbazira.

Authorities allege that the two players were recruited to influence events on the pitch during the match.

Investigators claim that Mutyaba played a key role in match-day technical matters, reportedly taking advantage of the absence of Express FC head coach Badru Kaddu.

FUFA has since engaged the Criminal Investigations Directorate to support the ongoing investigations.

As a precautionary measure, the Investigatory Chamber has provisionally suspended Mike Mutyaba, Ashraf Miiro, Emmanuel Kalyowa, Ashraf Mbazira, and Ivan Katende from all football-related activities pending the outcome of disciplinary proceedings.

FUFA has also cautioned clubs, players, and other football stakeholders against engaging with the individuals named while the investigation is ongoing, emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the game.