Swansea City captain Ben Cabango has received a six-month driving ban for using his mobile phone while driving. The Wales international pleaded guilty to the offence, which occurred in Swansea on January 9, and was sentenced at Swansea Magistrates' Court on July 24.
He was handed a £640 fine, a £256 victim surcharge, and £120 in prosecution costs, with payments due by August 24. The court also imposed six penalty points on his licence. The case was processed through the single justice procedure, a fast-track legal process for minor offences.
The incident took place on Brynmill Terrace and Mumbles Road. It happened just two days before Cabango led Swansea City out as captain for their FA Cup third-round tie against West Bromwich Albion. The defender, who is 26, has been a mainstay for the Swans, making over 250 appearances for the Championship club.
Cabango's journey with Swansea began when he joined the club's academy at the age of 14 from Newport County. He signed a professional contract and, aside from a brief loan spell at The New Saints in the 2018/19 season, has spent his entire senior career with the Swans.
As club captain and a key central defender, Cabango's presence is important for the team's structure. The current squad relies on his experience in the Championship. He has also earned 16 caps for the Wales national team.
His disciplinary record off the pitch is now separate from his commitments on it. The club has not commented publicly on the legal matter, which is considered a personal issue for the player.
The single justice procedure used in this case allows for a magistrate to deal with certain charges without a hearing in open court. Cabango's guilty plea was accepted through this method. The six-month disqualification is a mandatory consequence for the offence.
Driving while using a handheld device is a serious traffic violation that carries significant penalties. For a professional athlete, travel arrangements may need to be adjusted during the ban period.
Cabango will now focus on his football duties with Swansea City. The team's upcoming schedule, including their next Championship fixture, will be watched closely by supporters. His contract situation and continued role as a leader in the dressing room will be watched closely by supporters.
The defender's next match for Swansea City is scheduled for September 14th against Preston North End.
