The chief executive officer of the Fiji Football Association, Mohammed Yusuf, has issued a firm warning regarding the circulation of false or misleading information as police investigate alleged online harassment targeting football officials. Yusuf emphasized the necessity of maintaining the integrity of the game and stated that anyone disseminating defamatory content would face serious disciplinary action along with potential legal consequences.
“Fiji FA remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of football in our country. We urge all stakeholders to rely on official communication channels and to refrain from sharing unverified information,” Yusuf remarked. He made it clear that the circulation of fake or misleading content that tarnishes the reputation of the game would not be tolerated.
The warning comes in response to a complaint from the Ba Football Association, which has referred a case to the Fiji Police Force regarding the alleged spread of false information on social media targeting the district and its leadership. Ana Naisoro, a police spokesperson, confirmed that an investigation is underway following the formal complaint submitted by the president of the Ba Football Association, Praneel Dayal.
Investigations already include police questioning a government doctor concerning allegations of online harassment involving Ba football officials. Dayal mentioned that fake online accounts have reportedly been created to harass executives and players within the association. He expressed concern over the rising tide of misinformation that could lead to fragmentation within the “Men in Black” family and the broader football community, ultimately harming players, officials, sponsors, and supporters alike.
“While we respect the legal process and the presumption of innocence, we want to make it clear that Ba FA will not tolerate actions that seek to destabilize our association,” Dayal stated, reaffirming their commitment to focusing on the upcoming 2026 season and revitalizing Ba’s esteemed football legacy. He also thanked the police for their prompt response to the complaint, highlighting a collaborative approach towards resolving this issue.
This situation serves as a crucial reminder of the responsibilities that come with social media usage and the potential impact of misinformation on the community, urging everyone to contribute positively to the sport.
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