By Elizabeth Kamara
The Sierra Leone Football Association (SLFA) has suspended a referee for three months following a review of a match incident, it said in a statement on Monday.
The decision follows an investigation by the SLFA Referees Committee into an incident during a league match between Luawa FC and Wilberforce Strikers FC on Feb. 28 at the Approved School Mini Stadium.
The committee found that referee Shekita Deen Conteh made an incorrect decision by awarding a penalty to Wilberforce Strikers FC.
According to the statement, a review of match reports and video footage showed that the defender’s hand was in a natural position and did not make the body unnaturally bigger, meaning the penalty decision was inconsistent with the Laws of the Game.
“As a result, referee Shekita Deen Conteh has been suspended for three (3) months with immediate effect,” the SLFA said.
The referee has also been directed to attend a mandatory refresher course during the suspension period as part of efforts to improve officiating standards.
The SLFA said the move underscores its commitment to maintaining the integrity of officiating and ensuring adherence to the rules across all competitions.
