By Pewu Y. Sumo
MONROVIA – The Liberia Football Association (LFA) has handed down severe sanctions against top-tier football figures following a high-profile investigation into match manipulation.
On January 8, 2026, the LFA Grievance and Disciplinary Committee announced that Benita W. Urey, President of Shaita Angels FC, and Eugene Swen, a player for Paynesville FC, have been found culpable of conspiring to influence the outcome of league matches.
Violation of FIFA Ethics
The committee ruled that both individuals violated Part I, Chapter 2 (20)(1&3) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which specifically addresses the manipulation of football matches and competitions.
In a statement, the LFA referenced two fixtures during the 2024/25 First Division League season (Paynesville FC vs. Freeport FC and Shaita FC vs. Paynesville FC) as the reason for the administrative decision against the football administrator and player.
Heavy Penalties for Urey and Swen
Citing her central role in the conspiracy, the Disciplinary Committee imposed a harsh five-year sentence on Miss Urey to serve as a deterrent within the league.
Ms. Urey has now been banned for five years from all football-related activities, including administrative and sports roles. She is also strictly prohibited from entering any stadium during this period.
Meanwhile, Swen is also banned for two years (inclusive of his first suspension) from all football-related activities and stadium entry.
Impact on the League
The ruling has sent shockwaves through the Liberian football community, as it involves the leadership of a prominent club and a veteran player. By invoking the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the LFA is signaling a “zero-tolerance” policy toward corruption, aiming to restore public trust in the integrity of the First Division.
The ban effectively removes Ms. Urey from the management of Shaita Angels FC, leaving the club’s leadership in a state of uncertainty.
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