The Liberia Football Association (LFA) Grievance and Disciplinary Committee has sanctioned Shaita Angels FC President Benita W. Urey and Paynesville FC player Eugene Swen after finding both individuals guilty of involvement in match manipulation during the 2024/25 LFA First Division League season.
According to the Committee, the actions of the two violated Part II, Chapter 2, Articles 20(1) and 20(3) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which prohibit the manipulation of football matches and competitions. The ruling followed investigations into two league fixtures: Paynesville FC versus Freeport FC and Shaita Angels FC versus Paynesville FC.
The Committee determined that Ms. Urey played a significant role in a conspiracy aimed at influencing the outcome of the matches. As a result, she has been banned from all football-related activities, including administrative and sporting roles, for a period of five years. The sanction also bars her from entering any football stadium for the duration of the ban.
Player Eugene Swen was also found culpable and has been handed a two-year ban from all football-related activities, as well as a prohibition from entering any stadium. The LFA noted that this penalty is inclusive of his first suspension.
The LFA said the sanctions reflect its commitment to protecting the integrity of football in Liberia and enforcing FIFA regulations against match manipulation, particularly where the actions of officials and players threaten the credibility of domestic competitions.
