Online Reporter
Fungai Muderere
Zimpapers Spots Hub
ZIMBABWE Football Association have hinted they will make sure measures are taken to avoid a repeat of the violence that occurred at Maglas in Zvishavane on Sunday.
There was mayhem at the stadium, leading to abandonment of the game between Shabanie Mine and Gwanda in 68th minute.
The Zifa Central Region Soccer League violence resulted in alleged stabbings, stone-throwing fans and a three-hour stadium lock-in.
“ZIFA take this matter with the utmost seriousness and has already instituted a full and independent investigation to determine the circumstances leading to this attack,” said ZIFA.
“ZIFA will be working in close coordination with the ZIFA Central Region leadership, law enforcement, club management and community stakeholders to restore trust and ensure accountability.
“Disciplinary measures will be taken against any individuals or entities found to have contributed to or failed to prevent this regrettable incident. Violence has absolutely no place in our game.”
ZRP national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi clarified some of the reports circulated on social media, saying there were, however, no gun shots.
“We can confirm that there was an act of violence during a soccer match between Shabanie Mine and Gwanda Pirates at Maglas Stadium in Zvishavane.
“In this case there are two victims who were injured and this happened after they had clashed on a foul that took place during the match,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
He added: “There were no shots that were fired in a match that was watched by 1 400 spectators. The two victims are Simbarashe Zifungo(36) and Victor Pachawo (39), who all had their vehicles damaged.”
Gwanda blamed Shabanie.
“We were ambushed like animals,” fumed a Gwanda Pirates official.
“Even our families seated in VIP were not spared. Stones, bottles — it was war!”
Eyewitnesses said trouble started when the referee reversed a penalty decision, sending fans into over-drive.
“What began as insults quickly escalated into flying missiles and ugly scenes in the stands,” said the source.
“Shabanie Mine failed to provide adequate security. Our media team was beaten up, their vehicle damaged and expensive equipment destroyed,” Gwanda Pirates added.
They, however, denied responsibility for the two Shabanie fans stabbed.
Shabanie Mine’s side of the story could not be obtained.
The Central Region Soccer League (CRSL) also condemned acts of violence and hooliganism.
“It is sad to note that two persons were injured during the disturbances. CRSL is appalled and will take decisive action against those responsible.
“Such behaviour has no place in football and will not be tolerated. The safety, security and well-being of players, officials, fans and football stakeholders’ safety and security measures will be strengthened. The public will be notified of the outcome of the investigations,” said CRSL in a statement.
It is also reported that violence saw the Pirates team bus and media van being attacked.
