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Mashudu Netsianda, Senior Court Reporter
A HIGHLANDERS Football Club fan who sparked skirmishes at Barbourfields Stadium in Bulawayo when he invaded the pitch recently, has been fined $20.
The violence started at the end of a premiership match, a 1-1 stalemate, pitting Highlanders FC and Chicken Inn.
Never Nxumalo (25) of Njube suburb was convicted of causing disorder in a public place by Bulawayo magistrate Mrs Adelaide Mbeure.
In passing sentence, the magistrate said the offence was unjustified and least expected in a public place.
“The offence committed is unjustified. You behaved in a disorderly manner in a public place where the expectation is that members of the public should conduct themselves in an orderly manner rather than causing unnecessary chaos,” said Mrs Mbeure.
She said a jail term would be too harsh considering the offence. “A fine would be appropriate in the circumstances,” ruled Mrs Mbeure.
Prosecuting, Miss Caroline Matanga said on August 14 shortly after 4.45PM, Nxumalo unlawfully entered the pitch after the match.
The court heard that Assistant Velile Zele and Constable Emmanuel Taruvinga apprehended Nxumalo who was trying to resist arrest, sparking outrage from other Highlanders fans.
Hooligans started throwing missiles at the two cops before they invaded the pitch.
Police set a dog on the rowdy fans while beating them with truncheons at the same time.
“When Assistant Zele and Constable Taruvinga arrested Nxumalo, Highlanders fans started throwing missiles which were directed at the two police officers before they invaded the pitch and engaged in acts of violence,” said Miss Matanga.
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