December 07, (THEWILL) – Sunshine Stars football team has been attacked by suspected hoodlums whilst travelling to an upcoming match, resulting in injuries. The Akure-based side were travelling along the Ore-Benin Expressway on Thursday when their vehicle was targeted.
According to accounts, a number of unidentified gunmen opened fire on the vehicle containing players and coaching staff. One individual, the team’s ball boy, was shot and at least three members of staff sustained injuries. Amongst those injured were the team manager Seun Betiku.
Officers from the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived quickly at the scene and were able to transport the victims, including the individual who had been shot, to a nearby hospital for treatment. The extent of their injuries remains unknown.
The team had been due to face Insurance FC from Benin City next as part of the Nigeria Professional Football League contest. Michael Akintunde, Sunshine Media Officer, said: “It saddens our hearts to inform Nigerians, especially football lovers, that our team was attacked… Our ball boy was shot in the horrible attack. Our team manager and other club officials including players are seriously injured.”
An investigation into the attack is expected. It is unclear whether the upcoming fixture will still go ahead as planned.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
