Eto'o Suspends Referees, Cameroon FA Investigates Local League Matches Over Corruption Suspicions

A major crisis has erupted in the Cameroonian Premier League after the Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) announced the provisional suspension of four referees and a referee inspector. The federation has also launched investigations into suspicious matches following highly controversial officiating decisions.

FECAFOOT confirmed its decision to suspend the referees and the referee inspector for the match between Victoria United and PWD Bamenda, which took place last Sunday. This action was taken after a series of officiating decisions described as “controversial and raising doubts.” The contentious decisions included disallowing a goal for PWD Bamenda, issuing a red card, and showing seven yellow cards to players from the same team. These incidents prompted the federation to provisionally suspend the officiating crew and their supervisor pending the completion of disciplinary procedures.

In addition, FECAFOOT announced an administrative investigation into another match from the same round, Dynamo Douala against Fortuna. This probe was initiated due to serious suspicions of match manipulation, and the case has been referred to a specialized committee to scrutinize the circumstances and propose appropriate sanctions if violations are confirmed.

This move comes as part of FECAFOOT President Samuel Eto'o's ongoing efforts to reform the image of refereeing and enhance transparency within Cameroonian football, in response to frequent accusations of a lack of fairness in handling officiating errors.

The disciplinary committee is expected to issue its final findings after the investigations conclude. These findings could include severe disciplinary penalties, potentially ranging from suspensions to financial sanctions, in accordance with the federation's regulations.