City Oilers’ Edrine Walujjo Handed Five-Year Ban Following Betting Allegations

Match-Fixing Allegations Lead to Arrest

On August 6, Walujjo was arrested during the FIBA 3X3 Nations League under suspicion of betting and match-fixing.

He was taken into custody at Jinja Road Police Station, where investigations are still ongoing. The Uganda Basketball Federation (FUBA) has since confirmed that the player is facing charges under Police File No. CRB/734/2024.

FUBA addressed the situation in a statement, saying:

“The Excom referred this matter to the Competition Council and a Disciplinary hearing was conducted immediately with evidence presented, a testimony from the athlete and the National Team Delegation of Benin.”

Five-Year Suspension Imposed

Following a disciplinary hearing, the Federation’s Disciplinary Committee recommended a five-year suspension for Walujjo in accordance with Section 7.04(f) of the FUBA Competition Rules and Regulations 2024. The ban, effective as of August 19, 2024, prohibits Walujjo from participating in any FUBA-sanctioned events, whether as a player, fan, or administrator.

The federation has stated it will not comment further until the police investigation is concluded. “The Federation shall not issue any further statements in regard to this matter until the Police Case is concluded.”

Details of the Alleged Scheme

Walujjo is accused of attempting to manipulate the outcome of a match during the FIBA 3X3 Nations League by offering bribes to players from the Benin women’s team.

Sources claim he also tried to recruit the Benin men’s team to participate in the scheme. Upon discovering this, the players alerted their management, leading to Walujjo’s eventual arrest.

A plan was devised to catch Walujjo in the act, and on the day of the match at Lugogo Hockey Grounds, the Oilers forward was detained by police.

Impact on the Oilers and Ongoing Investigations

Walujjo’s suspension is a significant blow to the City Oilers, who are in the midst of their semi-final series against the UCU Canons, with the team already down key players. His exclusion adds to the difficulties faced by the nine-time champions as they seek to defend their title.

The team has been heavily reliant on its remaining players, and the loss of Walujjo, along with the departure of key figures earlier in the season, has left the Oilers in a challenging position.

Looking to salvage their season, the Oilers have brought in new recruits, including American guard Petty Parish, for the remainder of the season.