Bongani Ndlovu
Zimpapers Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has arrested Hardrock FC chief executive officer Kudzanai Hove (44) in connection with the violent disturbances that erupted during a Premier Soccer League match between Hardrock FC and Dynamos FC at Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe on 24 May 2026.
In a brief statement, the ZRP said Hove was arrested as part of ongoing investigations into the stadium violence incident, adding that more details will be released in due course.
The latest development comes after police earlier confirmed the arrest of four suspects linked to the same incident, where violent clashes broke out between rival supporters, leading to the abandonment of the match in the 80th minute.
Previously, the Zimbabwe Republic Police named Shingirai Chivavare (34), Matthias Taderera (43), Tavakuda Nyoni (46) and Emmanuel Dube (50) as being among those arrested in connection with acts of violence and public disorder.
Police said the suspects were part of a group involved in disturbances that followed reported missile-throwing between supporters, pitch invasion and fighting inside the stadium.
Seven supporters were injured during the chaos and were admitted to Kwekwe General Hospital in stable condition.
Property at the stadium was also damaged, including turnstiles and perimeter barricades, as violence spilled across different sections of the venue.
Investigations are also ongoing into how nearly 5 000 supporters were left outside the stadium at kick-off, with some later forcing their way into the ground after damaging entry points.
Authorities believe the congestion and breakdown of crowd control may have contributed to the escalation of violence once sections of supporters gained access.
The ZRP has since urged football authorities, including the Premier Soccer League, to ensure strict adherence to stadium capacity regulations and pre-ticketing systems to avoid overcrowding and security breaches.
Police have also indicated plans to engage the Premier Soccer League and the Zimbabwe Football Association to strengthen stadium safety management ahead of future fixtures.
Commissioner Paul Nyathi previously warned that acts of violence, vandalism and public disorder at sporting events will not be tolerated, adding that offenders will face the full wrath of the law.
The investigation into the Kwekwe incident is ongoing.
Bunjiwe Mkwananzi