Three rugby players handed combined fourteen years ban for assaulting referee

The country's rugby governing body, Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), has seen to it that the three former Shamas Foundation RFC players - Joseph Kang'ethe, James Kang'ethe and Julian Owino - who were involved in physically assaulting centre referee Saidi Kenya have been accordingly brought to book for their heinous offence.

In a verdict delivered on Friday afternoon following the completion of the disciplinary process launched for the case, KRU slapped a consecutive ban of 6 years, 5.5 years and 3 years to Joseph, James and Julian respectively for the part they played in the senseless act.

Last weekend, in a KRU championship semifinal match that pitted Shamas against Catholic Monks, the trio were spotted physically attacking the centre referee for allegations of poor officiating after their team were denied the opportunity of gaining promotion to the top flight Kenya Cup as they were defeated 5-9 by Monks.

In videos that circulated the online space, the players are seen landing blows and manhandling Kenya who struggled to escape their charge.

Following a large outburst from various stakeholders in the game, KRU has now drove a final nail in the coffins of the three players.

"For act 9:28-2 (a player must not verbally abuse match official) imposed upon the player a 26 weeks suspension.

For 9:28-4 (must not use threatening actions or words towards MO) imposed a 78 weeks suspension.

For 9:28-5 ( must not physically abuse MO) imposed a 208 weeks suspension. The total suspension imposed on thr player is 312 weeks(6 years) to be served consecutively from 26th March 2022 to 25th March 2028," read the verdict on 33 year old Joseph Kang'ethe's case.

The other Kang'ethe sibling, James, was charged with the same offences with the his third crime slapped with 182 weeks.

"Total suspension imposed on the player is 286 weeks (5.5 years) from 26 March 2022 to 25 September 2027," 33 year old James' verdict read.

Julian on his part was only charge for act 9:28-5 ( a player must not physically abuse MO) which led to his 3 year ban that will end on 25 March 2025.

Action taken on four rugby players who assaulted referee

The three players have also had their contracts terminated by Shamas Foundation who stated they do not tolerate the actions they showcased.