Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is investigating a fatal incident involving a police public order vehicle and a pedestrian at the National Sports Stadium on Monday evening, where one person died during a stampede at the start of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier between Zimbabwe and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that investigations were underway following the tragedy at Gate Number Two.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms that swift and compressive investigations are currently underway after a fatal incident involving a police public order vehicle and a pedestrian at the National Sports stadium where one person died during a stampede at gate number two at 1830 hours at the beginning of the soccer match between Zimbabwe and Democratic Republic of Congo,” said Comm Nyathi.
The Commissioner General of Police Stephen Mutamba has expressed condolences to the family of the victim.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police assures the public of objective and compressive investigations to find out exactly what transpired,” said Comm Nyathi.
He said a detailed statement would be issued in due course.
The incident occurred as thousands of fans thronged the National Sports Stadium for the Warriors’ home qualifier against the DRC, which kicked off at 6pm. The match had attracted a capacity crowd, with supporters gathering from early afternoon and long queues forming at entry points.
The ZRP has not released the identity of the deceased pending notification of next of kin and completion of initial investigations.
The tragedy has cast a pall over what had been a spirited footballing evening, where the Warriors put on a proud performance despite losing 2-1.
