SOCCER holigans caused almost R3-million in damages at the Moses Mabhida stadium in Durban when Kaizer Chiefs lost to Free State Stars last Saturday.
eThekwini mayor Zandile Gumede revealed at a media briefing on Wednesday that the unrest which erupted the game resulted in R2.6-million worth of damage and 19 people suffering injuries.
Gumede there was a “long list” of damages including the pitch, goal posts, fencing, crowd management barriers, water points, bins, dinner plates, glasses, chairs and tables.
Gumede condemned the violence, destruction of property and “hooliganism that was displayed in full view of the world on Saturday.
“No amount of frustration and anger should lead one to cause violence and injure other citizens in the name of sport.
“Lovers of sport are expected to understand the game better because by nature you either win or lose. If you lose nobody must be threatened and no property must be destroyed.
“The unfortunate events of the weekend are a bad reflection on us as a nation and we hope that the police will find all the perpetrators.”
She praised the police for their “swift action” in arresting two people.
“We are hoping for more arrests.”
The city is planning a drive to educate communities on proper behaviour at soccer events.
SUTHENTIRA GOVENDER
TimesLIVE/
