diff --git a/mods/ENVIRONMENT/mcl_raids/init.lua b/mods/ENVIRONMENT/mcl_raids/init.lua
index 053543c9d3..5a4575670d 100644
--- a/mods/ENVIRONMENT/mcl_raids/init.lua
+++ b/mods/ENVIRONMENT/mcl_raids/init.lua
@@ -102,7 +102,7 @@ function mcl_raids.promote_to_raidcaptain(c) -- object
 			l._banner:remove()
 			l._banner = nil
 			mcl_raids.drop_obanner(pos)
-			if cmi_cause.type == "punch" and cmi_cause.puncher:is_player() then
+			if cmi_cause and cmi_cause.type == "punch" and cmi_cause.puncher:is_player() then
 				awards.unlock(cmi_cause.puncher:get_player_name(), "mcl:voluntary_exile")
 				local lv = mcl_potions.player_get_effect(cmi_cause.puncher, "bad_omen")
 				if not lv then lv = 0