Kenyan Footballer Killed in Mob Justice Incident in Nairobi

New Mathare City players where Eric Wafula used to play during a previous fixture. (Photo Courtesy)

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New Mathare City players where Eric Wafula used to play during a previous fixture. (Photo Courtesy)

Kenyan Footballer Killed in Mob Justice Incident in Nairobi

Stephen Awino 20:59 - 08.06.2025

Former New Mathare FC goalkeeper Eric Wafula was killed in a mob justice incident in Pangani, Nairobi.

Kenyan footballer and former New Mathare FC goalkeeper Eric Wafula, popularly known as Jagoal or Norlan, was tragically killed over the weekend in a mob justice incident in Pangani, Nairobi.

The shot stopper and an unidentified friend were lynched by members of the public shortly after allegedly snatching a phone.

Their bodies were taken to the Nairobi Funeral Home (formerly City Mortuary).

Wafula was once a rising star in Kenyan football, known for his acrobatic saves and commanding presence in goal.

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New Mathare FC Mourns Death of Former Goalkeeper

New Mathare FC, which competes in the Football Kenya Federation National Division Two Eastern Zone, mourned the loss of their former player.

Wafula’s natural ability between the posts earned him admiration across the Nairobi grassroots football scene.

“We are saddened by the passing of our former goalkeeper Eric Wafula. Shine on your way, Jagoal. Rest in Peace,” the club said in a statement.

An officer at John Saga Police Station according to Nation Sports noted, “The fame that came with his talent saved his life on several occasions. All I can say is he was a talented goalkeeper... It is sad that his life was to end in such a manner."

He had once been rescued from a similar mob justice incident in Kariobangi, where plainclothes officers intervened after another phone theft allegation accroding to reports.

Despite his reputation as a skilled shot-stopper, Wafula’s football journey took a downward spiral.

Wafula started with MYSA (Mathare Youth Sports Association) and earned a spot at New Mathare FC before eventually vanishing from the competitive scene.