There was a breach on Sunday afternoon after fans overpowered security officers and forced their way into the Moi Sports Centre, Kasarani Stadium.
Football enthusiasts gathered to witness the highly anticipated CHAN 2024 match between Kenya’s Harambee Stars and the Leopards of DR Congo.
Hundreds of fans were seen storming the stadium as security personnel attempted to stop them.
However, they were overpowered as the crowds jumped over barriers to gain entry in large numbers.
The government had earlier given clear and strict instructions on the security protocols that would be followed.
Instruments like the vuvuzela and whistles were banned from being used inside the stadium.
Entry was also by ticket only, with heavy police deployed on the main gates to ensure adherence.
The opening match for Harambee Stars in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) was scheduled to kick off at 3 pm.
Supporters arrived early, many dressed in national team colours and waving Kenyan flags, turning the busy Thika Superhighway into a sea of red, black, green, and white.
The atmosphere was electric, with chants, vuvuzelas, and cheers echoing from matatus, motorbikes, and pedestrians heading to the venue.
Security was heightened along key routes, with police monitoring movement and managing traffic to ensure a smooth flow toward Kasarani.
Some sections of the Thika Road service lanes, especially around Roysambu, were temporarily closed to control congestion and secure the stadium’s surroundings.
The 2024 CHAN tournament officially kicked off on Saturday, August 2, with hosts Tanzania securing a 2-0 win against Burkina Faso in the opening match at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam.
Sunday marks Day 2 of the tournament, featuring the Kenya vs DR Congo clash at 3 pm at Kasarani, followed by a 6 pm match at Nyayo Stadium where two-time champions Morocco take on Angola.
This year’s CHAN will run from August 2 to 30, with matches hosted across three East African nations; Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
