Zamalek to formally question Gaber over refusal to play during disaster game

Mahmoud Elassal , Thursday 12 Feb 2015

Fan-favourite Omar Gaber is to be questioned by the Whites board after he refused to play in protest of fans deaths Sunday

Omar Gaber
Zamalek's Omar Gaber points to the badge of Zamalek while saluting the fans during a Premier League game against ENPPI on Sunday, Feb 8, 2014 (Photo: Suhail Saleh)

Zamalek midfielder Omar Gaber, who made big news by not playing against ENPPI over the death of fans before the match, has been suspended pending an inquiry into his conduct by the management, the club announced on Thursday.

According to the health ministry, 20 people died after clashes occurred between the police and Zamalek supporters before the match.

Police investigations into the deaths are still ongoing.

Forensics Medicine reported that the fans died due to a stampede, while the Zamalek Ultras White Knights said "a criminal plot was pre-planned," blaming the deaths on new security procedures that included the installation of a 'metal cage' for the fans to enter at the stadium gates.

The 23-year-old midfielder Gaber refused to take part in the game after he was informed that fans had died.

A Zamalek board member announced Thursday that Gaber will be suspended and will be questioned for his refusal to play in the game.

Gaber's wages have been withheld until the investigation is complete.

The board member also announced that Gaber will train with the youth team pending the outcome of the inquiry.

Gaber, who came through the youth ranks of Zamalek, is a long-time supporter of the ultras. An interview he made last year, in which he lauded the ardent fan group, landed him in hot water with club chairman and outspoken lawyer Mortada Mansour.

After the Air Defence Stadium disaster, Gaber asked Zamalek's management to terminate his contract amicably saying he won't play for the team due to the management's attitude him.

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