Israeli football fans in Amsterdam, Netherlands, faced a series of violent attacks, requiring riot police intervention multiple times to protect them.
According to <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx2y33ee1klo">BBC News</a>, the attacks took place in various parts of the city, including before and after a Europa League match between Israeli club Maccabi Tel Aviv and Dutch football giants Ajax.
Prime Minister Dick Schoof condemned the “antisemitic attacks,” and Israel’s military described the incidents as “severe and violent” against Israelis.
Amsterdam’s mayor and authorities said that despite a massive police presence, Israeli fans had been injured in several parts of the Dutch capital.
Amsterdam police arrested 62 people in connection with the violent incidents. Five people were hospitalised, and authorities are investigating the attacks. They also received reports of a potential hostage situation, though this was not confirmed.
Prime Minister Schoof expressed horror at the violence, reassuring that the perpetrators would be tracked down and prosecuted.
Dutch officials, including the national coordinator for combating antisemitism, described the violence as disgusting, stating that a line had been crossed.
Chanan Hertzberger, head of the Central Jewish Committee in the Netherlands, accused taxi drivers of exacerbating the violence by helping to corner Israeli fans. Videos surfaced showing assaults and attempts to run over Israelis.
Israeli airline El Al organized two “rescue flights” to bring passengers back to Israel following the violence. That was after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cancelled plans to send two military planes.
Tensions had been high before the match, with clashes between Maccabi fans and pro-Palestinian protesters, including fireworks and the tearing down of a Palestinian flag.
The unrest escalated after the game, with videos circulating showing beatings and a person being run over, some of which included pro-Palestinian slogans.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog called the violence a “pogrom” against Maccabi fans and Israeli citizens. 
Dutch anti-Islam politician Geert Wilders also referred to the events as a pogrom and criticized authorities for their failure to protect Israeli citizens.
Mayor Femke Halsema tried to prevent further violence by moving pro-Palestinian protesters away from the Johan Cruyff Arena.
However, reports indicated that a large group later attempted to head toward the stadium, only to be stopped by riot police.
The attacks sparked international outrage, with US special envoy on antisemitism Deborah Lipstadt describing them as “horrifying” and “reminiscent of a classic pogrom.”
She said the violence occurred just days before the anniversary of the 1938 Nazi pogrom against Jews in Germany, calling the images “horrific and shameful.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Israeli football fans in Amsterdam were attacked in violent incidents. The attacks happened before and after the match between Israeli and Dutch teams. Dutch officials condemned the attacks as antisemitic, and many people were arrested. Videos showed assaults and attempts to run over Israelis. Israeli leaders called the violence a pogrom, and Israeli fans were brought back to Israel on special flights. Tensions were high before the match, with clashes between fans and protesters. International outrage followed the attacks, with comparisons made to historic events.

Israeli Football Fans Targeted In Violent Pogrom-Like Attacks In Amsterdam

Northern Region Soccer League title-contenders Scottland F.C. have been awarded a 3-0 victory for their abandoned match against Karoi United, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/scottland-awarded-abandoned-match-match-officials-paint-graphic-picture-of-what-transpired/">The Herald.</a>
This brings Scottland, owned by Mabvuku Tafara MP Pedzai “Scott” Sakupwanya (ZANU PF), to 69 points, just two points shy of the league leaders MWOS, who have 71 points.
A three-member NRSL independent tribunal reviewed arguments from both clubs and match officials’ reports regarding the September 15 match between Karoi United and Scottland.
The game was abandoned with eight minutes remaining after referee Matthew Dingo was allegedly struck by a missile thrown by a Karoi United fan.
The incident occurred when Dingo attempted to issue a yellow card to Karoi United’s goalkeeper for time-wasting, with the score tied at 1-1.
As a result, Karoi United were deemed to have lost the game, awarding Scottland the full points and narrowing their gap with MWOS to two points with six matches remaining.
In his match report, match commissioner Kanzvimbo Kanzvimbo said Karoi United exhibited unruly behaviour from the arrival of the Scottland team bus at Chikangwe Stadium around 1:30 PM until 6 PM when police had to escort Scottland FC officials and players to safety.
He reported that Karoi United fans hurled empty beverage bottles at him and threatened to assault him if their team lost the match. He said:
<blockquote>
Missiles were also thrown to the technical bench of Scottland FC then a police officer with a dog was deployed behind them.
Karoi United goalkeeper (Monze) started feigning injuries delaying the restart of play. He was verbally warned several times and at 82 minutes, the referee (Dingo) went to caution him for a similar offence (and) during that process Karoi United supporters who were behind the goals threw missiles at him and he fell. Police and medical teams entered the field of play to assist him.
</blockquote>
Kanzvimbo added that Dingo had to be carried off the pitch while being treated, as Karoi United fans continued to throw objects onto the field. He said:
<blockquote>
The referees had to go to the changing rooms for safety and further treatment. Karoi United fans advanced and surrounded the changing room demanding that they be released.
I was sprinkled with unknown liquid substances as I moved in and out of changing rooms to check the safety of players.
Officials and players of Scottland FC had to seek refuge in their team for safety. At around 18:00hrs, more Police officers arrived and we were escorted out of the stadium up to town.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Scottland F.C. won 3-0 against Karoi United after their match was abandoned. The referee was hit by something thrown by a Karoi United fan. Karoi United fans were behaving badly throughout the game. The referee had to be carried off the pitch for treatment. The match commissioner also had to seek safety from angry Karoi United fans. Scottland F.C. now has 69 points, while MWOS has 71 points. Scottland is getting closer to the league leaders.

Scottland Awarded Abandoned Match Against Karoi United

The high-stakes Northern Region Soccer League (NRSL) match between Scottland and Karoi United at Chikangwe Stadium on Sunday ended prematurely due to an alleged assault on referee Mathew Dingo by some hooligans, a claim that has been disputed.
Scottland, owned by ZANU PF Member of Parliament Pedzai “Scott” Sakupwanya, is in the race for the title but now trails behind log leaders MWOS.
Reports indicate that 32-year-old Mathew Dingo may have “faked” an injury to justify abandoning the match in the 88th minute, with the score tied at 1-1.
Former Warriors defender Ronald Pfumbidzai put Scottland ahead in the first half, but Peter Bhero equalized for Karoi in the second half.
According to <a href="https://www.soccer24.co.zw/2024/09/17/referee-controversy-as-official-declares-self-unfit-to-last-remaining-2-minutes-of-karoi-scottland-game/">Soccer24</a>, a Karoi United player, speaking on condition of anonymity, claimed that the referee was struck by a match ball thrown back into play by a spectator, causing him to fall to the ground. Said the player:
<blockquote>
It’s sad that the story is now being twisted. There was no violence whatsoever at the end of our game with Scottland.
The ball went out of play, and it was thrown back onto the field of play and accidentally hit the referee.
The referee exaggerated the impact and threw himself on the ground. We helped him to get back to his feet but he went down again, before telling the match commissioner that he was unable to continue.
What’s shocking in all of this, is the fact that he referee (Dingo) was able to walk to the dressing when the game was called off but was apparently not fit enough to officiate the remaining two minutes of it.
Before the second half started, the referee called our coach (Wonder Ngoko), who went onto the field of play. The official told Ngoko that the game was too tense and he was failing to handle it.
You can even ask the match commissioner if he is not aware of that incident. So it’s sad that the story is now being twisted to say spectators were violent and hurt the referee.
If our supporters wanted to react violently, they could have done so when our teammate Edmore (Mubatapasango) was show a questionable red card in the second half.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, MWOS secured a 2-1 victory over Harare City at Mkushi Academy grounds, while Black Rhinos suffered a 2-0 defeat to Chinhoyi Stars in Chinhoyi.
As a result, the NRSL title race is shaping up to be a two-horse competition between MWOS and Scottland.
The abandonment of the match between Scottland and Karoi United occurred just a week after another controversy when MWOS’s away game against Shamva Mine was marred by home team supporters invading the pitch and assaulting referee Never Dombo.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A soccer match between Scottland and Karoi United ended early because the referee said he got hurt, but some people think he faked it. Scottland is owned by a famous person and is trying to win the title. The score was tied at 1-1 before the match ended. Another team, MWOS, won their game, too. The referee controversy is not the first in the league, as a previous game had problems with fans. The race for the title is now between MWOS and Scottland.

Scottland Versus Karoi United Match Ends In Chaos After Referee "Fakes" Injury

Highlanders FC has thanked their fans for maintaining order at Barbourfields Stadium this season.
Historically, Bosso fans have engaged in hooliganism, particularly during matches against Dynamos FC, leading to over US$95,000 in fines to the league over the past eight years.
In a social media post on Friday, 30 August, Highlanders thanked their supporters for refraining from violence and contributing to a positive matchday atmosphere. The club said:
<blockquote>
Thank you, MaBosso amahle, ngokuziphatha kuhle this season! We are proud to say we have had a VIOLENCE FREE football experience eBF so far… for the first time in 8 years! Ubuntu benu, sportsmanship, and love for Highlanders made this possible.
In the last 8 seasons, your club paid US$95,708 in fines for crowd trouble. LIKULUNGISILE lokho… halalaa! SIYABONGA kakhulu, akuqhubeke kunjalo. Tshela umakhelwane ukuthi iBosso iyabonga!
</blockquote>
In February 2024, Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairman Farai Jere revealed that the league intentionally scheduled the match between Highlanders and Dynamos for the opening weekend of the 2024 season at Barbourfields Stadium to mitigate the violence that has plagued this fixture in previous years.
However, Jere’s comments, made during the renewal of a sponsorship deal between the PSL and Delta Beverages, sparked outrage from both Dynamos and Highlanders. The two clubs issued a joint statement describing his remarks as “inflammatory.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Highlanders FC thanked their fans for not causing trouble at the stadium this season. In the past, fans got into fights and the club had to pay fines. This season, there was no violence, which was a big achievement. The league scheduled a big game to avoid fights, but some people didn't like it. Fans and players from both teams were upset by the chairman's comments. The clubs came together to say they were angry. Everyone wants to keep the games safe and fun for everyone.

Highlanders Thanks Supporters For Avoiding Violence This Season

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has ordered Chegutu Pirates and Dynamos to submit comprehensive reports detailing the events leading up to the abandonment of their match at Baobab Stadium on Thursday.
The match was called off after Chegutu Pirates players refused to restart the game in protest over the referees’ decision to allow Dynamos’ 97th-minute goal to stand, arguing that the ball did not cross the goal line.
Chegutu Pirates fans also threw objects onto the pitch after the referee had signalled a goal for DeMbare.
Videos suggested that the Chegutu Pirates defender was behind the goal line when he headed the ball in a desperate attempt to clear their lines.
In a statement issued this Saturday, PSL Communications and Media Liason Officer Kudzai Bare, disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against Chegutu Pirates. She said:
<blockquote>
The Premier Soccer League has received the official match reports regarding the abandonment of the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between Chegutu Pirates FC and Dynamos FC played on Thursday 25 April 2024.
In light of this incident, we have advised both clubs to submit comprehensive reports detailing the events leading up to the abandonment before initiating disciplinary proceedings.
As an organization committed to upholding the integrity of the sport, we strongly urge all players and officials to adhere to the rules and regulations of the Premier Soccer League.
Such behaviour is essential to maintaining the spirit of competition and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants and spectators.
We remind all stakeholders that any violation of the PSL regulations will be met with appropriate disciplinary measures.
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Chegutu Pirates vs. Dynamos match was the second PSL game to be abandoned this season after the CAPS United vs. FC Platinum game at Mandava Stadium on 6 April 2024 also ended prematurely.
The match was abandoned with only four minutes left in regulation time after CAPS United fans invaded the pitch in protest over a Ralph Kawondera “goal” had been ruled out for offside.
FC Platinum was leading 1-0 at the time the game was abandoned. The goal was scored by Juan Mutudza in the eighth minute.
The PSL then summoned CAPS United to appear before the PSL Disciplinary Committee on 23 April 2024. The outcome of the disciplinary proceedings has not been made public.
In 2022, Highlanders and Dynamos were fined by the PSL Disciplinary Committee due to incidents of violence and hooliganism during their league match between the two clubs at Barbourfields Stadium in May of that year.
Dynamos FC, who were the home team, were fined $7,500, while Highlanders FC was fined $5,000. The match was awarded to Highlanders on a 3-0 scoreline.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

PSL Orders Chegutu Pirates And Dynamos To Submit Reports On Abandoned Match

The match between Chegutu Pirates versus Dynamos on Thursday, 25 April, became the second to be abandoned in the current Castle Lager Premier Soccer League season due to crowd trouble at the Baobab Stadium in Mhondoro.
Chegutu Pirates fans hurled objects onto the pitch during stoppage time, protesting a DeMbare goal by Donald Dzvinya arguing the ball did not cross the line.
However, videos suggested that their Chegutu Pirates defender was behind the goal line when he headed the ball in a desperate attempt to clear their lines.
Match commissioner Brighton Mudzamiri confirmed the match was called off because of the refusal by Chegutu Pirates to restart the game after DeMbare had scored the winner in the 97th minute. <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dembare-pirates-match-abandoned/">Said Mudzamiri</a>:
<blockquote>
The match could not go ahead as you all saw that the other team refused to restart after conceding a goal. There was nothing more the referees could do. So it’s abandoned.
</blockquote>
Chegutu Pirates coach Emmanuel Day Gutu claimed that the assistant referee, who advised the referee that the ball had crossed the goalline, was influenced to make his decision by a photographer. He said (<a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200026105/another-psl-match-abandoned">via NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
It’s a pity the game had to be decided this way. But we gave a good account of ourselves, they had their moments and we had our moments.
About the goal, I am not sure. The assistant referee was better positioned. When we asked the referee, he too was not sure whether the ball had crossed the line.
The ball was in the air, so it was very difficult to see whether it crossed the line [or not]. The referee wasn’t sure and went and consulted the assistant referee, but the assistant referee’s decision was influenced by the photographer. So we are not sure and even myself I am not sure whether it crossed the line.
I am happy with the performance. First half we were jittery, but second half we were a bit more composed. We now know how to play with bigger clubs.
We learnt our lesson against Highlanders, it’s a work in progress, but I am happy with the performance.
</blockquote>
The Glamour Boys are likely to win the match in the boardroom as video evidence appears to be in their favour. 
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chegutu Pirates Coach Alleges Photographer Influenced Referee In Abandoned Match vs. Dynamos

Premier Soccer League (PSL) chairman Farai Jere has warned CAPS United that it faces a heavy fine after club fans forced the abandonment of the Castle Lager Premiership match against FC Platinum at Mandava Stadium last Saturday.
The match was abandoned with only four minutes left in regulation time after CAPS United fans had swarmed the pitch in protest over a disallowed goal, creating an unsafe environment for the referees.
Jere, who is also the president of CAPS United, said that the club was facing the prospect of a heavy fine based on PSL statutes. He said (via <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200025391/jere-reacts-to-mandava-fiasco">NewsDay</a>):
<blockquote>
We have brought the game of football into disrepute and now the same club that we dearly love is going to be fined heavily because it’s very clear what the statues say. We know even before we go for a hearing that it’s a serious offence.
As the chairman of PSL and the president of CAPS United, I am not happy with the videos I am seeing of the fans going after the referees. We don’t condone any acts of violence in our football.
Let’s respect referees, they make decisions in a split second, even in Europe VAR (Video Assistant Referee) makes mistakes, someone sitting and watching on a monitor makes mistakes.
I want to encourage the responsible authorities to deal with this as soon as possible because the statutes are there.
</blockquote>
In 2022, Highlanders and Dynamos were fined by the PSL Disciplinary Committee due to incidents of violence and hooliganism during their league match between the two clubs at Barbourfields Stadium in May of that year.
Dynamos FC, who were the home team, were fined $7,500, while Highlanders FC was fined $5,000. The match was awarded to Highlanders on a 3-0 scoreline.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

CAPS United "To Be Fined Heavily" Over Aborted PSL Match Says Jere

Violence erupted during Sunday’s Turkish Süper Lig match between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahçe, leaving a bitter aftermath. After the final whistle, Trabzonspor fans stormed onto the field, attacking Fenerbahçe players. 
The situation escalated as home supporters invaded the pitch at Trabzonspor’s stadium, where Fenerbahçe had secured a 3-2 victory.
In the chaotic scenes, a Trabzonspor fan confronted celebrating Fenerbahçe players, leading to physical altercations. 
Tensions flared during the 87th minute of the match when objects were hurled onto the field after Michy Batshuayi scored the decisive goal for the visitors. The situation escalated as Trabzonspor fans swarmed the players.
Former Blackpool and Queens Park Rangers player, Nigeria winger Osayi-Samuel, knocked down one of the pitch invaders, while former Chelsea forward Batshuayi aimed a kick at another. 
Turkey’s Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, promptly initiated an investigation into the incident. He emphasized that incidents of violence on football pitches are never acceptable. 
The Turkish Football Federation (TFF) echoed this sentiment, labelling the events as “unacceptable,” and vowed to impose necessary criminal sanctions on those responsible.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino also weighed in, condemning the scenes. He declared that such violence, whether on or off the field, has no place in our sport or society. He said:
<blockquote>
The violence witnessed after the Turkish Süper Lig match between Trabzonspor and Fenerbahçe is absolutely unacceptable – on or off the field, it has no place in our sport or society.
I have said it before, and I will say it again – without exception, in football, all players have to be safe and secure to play the game which brings such joy to so many people all over the world.
I call on the relevant authorities to ensure that this is respected at all levels and for the perpetrators of the shocking events in Trabzon to be held accountable for their actions.
</blockquote>
This incident is part of a string of controversial events in the Turkish league during the 2023-24 season. Notably, in December, referee Halil Umut Meler was struck by MKE Ankaragucu president Faruk Koca, leading to a suspension of Super Lig fixtures.
Currently, Fenerbahce holds the second position in the Super Lig, trailing leaders Galatasaray by just two points and enjoying a comfortable 30-point lead over Trabzonspor in third place.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Violence Breaks Out Between Fans And Players In Turkish SuperLig Match

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has said anti-riot police officers and dog handlers who ran away from football hooligans at Barbourfields Stadium early last month was an act of “strategic withdrawal” as opposed to cowardice, <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/cops-who-fled-hooligans-at-barbourfields-not-cowards-says-police-spokesperson/">reported ZimLive</a>.
Scores of rowdy fans invaded the pitch in protest over a decision by match officials during a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) match between arch-rivals Highlanders and Dynamos.
The police officers who were maintaining law and order at the match were outnumbered by the Highlanders fans who were throwing objects, forcing the cops to flee.
Speaking at a meeting called to brainstorm on causes and remedies to recurrent football violence ZRP spokesperson in Bulawayo Province Inspector Abednigo Ncube said:
<blockquote>
Our police officers on the day in question acted very professionally as they were wrestling their canine dogs from injuring and possibly killing those fighting police.
To all members of the public, you must know that was the last time to attempt to attack the police officers.
The withdrawal by the police was a strategy to safeguard lives but the public must not mistake that as an act of fear as they will not afford the same treatment next time.
</blockquote>
The workshop was attended by members of the ZRP, officials from the ZIFA Normalization Committee, football team representatives, Mzilikazi and Barbourfields residents’ representatives and top football fans from various teams.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZRP Says Police Officers Who Fled Hooligans At Barbourfields Not cowards

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has said Police have guaranteed security for all league games across the country.
Speaking to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/sport/article/200016726/police-to-tighten-security-at-psl-matches">NewsDay</a> on Friday, PSL chief executive officer Kennedy Ndebele also said the Highlanders vs. Yadah Stars match scheduled for Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday will go ahead as planned.
Yadah, through its lawyers, had requested the PSL to have the match played at a neutral venue after the violence at Barbourfields Stadium left police officers and fans nursing injuries.
Ndebele said they held a meeting with the police commanders on Wednesday and were assured of adequate security at all PSL matches. He said:
<blockquote>
We have responded to Yadah’s lawyers and as far as we are concerned, the fixture remains as scheduled but we appeal to fans and all stakeholders to attend football. Football is a family sport meant to unite.
We condemn violence and fans must come to watch football without invading the pitch and without throwing missiles.
We met with the police commanders on Wednesday and they have assured us of adequate security at all PSL matches.
We have requested the police to be strict in searching for potential missiles and only those vendors authorised by the owners of the stadia will be allowed to operate.
Those people who feel they have an appetite to be hooligans and cause violence should be nowhere near our stadia.
</blockquote>
Police have since arrested 19 people linked to the BF violence and were denied bail by the magistrates court as investigations continue.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Pledge To Tighten Security At PSL Matches

Police have released the names of 19 people arrested in connection with the violence that resulted in the abandonment of the high-profile Castle Lager Premier Soccer League (PSL) match between Dynamos and Highlanders at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday, 10 September.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Senior Staff Officer (Press and Public Relations), Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, said they are still conducting investigations to account for other suspects who were involved in the violence.
The 19, who were arrested for public violence, have been identified by the police as follows:
<ol>
<li>Raymond Nkomo,(25) of Makokoba, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Noboth Sithole, of Mzilikazi, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Sylvester Gumbo (30) of Old Pumula, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Sheperd Ncube (26) of BMC, Mzilikazi, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Wisdom Dube (30) of Nkulumane 5, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Shepherd Dube (24) of Ngozi Mine Cowdray Park, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Raymond Nkomo (26) of Makokoba, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Micah Masuku (49) of Makokoba, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Zibusiso Nkomo (32) of Old Lobengula, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Nelson Musengi (27) of Phelandaba West, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Brian Moyo (36) of New Luveve, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Willard Ncube (46) of Pumula South, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Khumbulani Khumalo (49) of Sauerstown, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Promise Mbambo (37) of Jabulani Flats Makokoba</li>
<li>Hlakanipha Luphahla (28) of Old Pumula, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Japhet Ncube (30) of Cowdray Park, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Brandon Mpala (27) of Masiyephambili flats, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Ayanda Dube (33) of Old Pumula, Bulawayo</li>
<li>Prince Moyo (35) of Old Pumula, Bulawayo.</li>
</ol>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Release Names Of 19 Barbourfields Stadium Violence Suspects

The ZIFA Normalisation Committee has called for lengthy bans to be imposed on football fans found guilty of violence at stadiums during matches.
This comes after rowdy Highlanders fans forced the abandonment of the high-profile league match against Dynamos and on Sunday, 10 September.
Bosso fans invaded the pitch during the first half of the match and chased after police officers, protesting what they believed were injustices by the referee.
In a statement released this Thursday, ZIFA also revealed that it was lobbying for an Exclusive Focus Group (EFG) to crack down on offensive songs and tribal or racial chants at football matches. ZIFA said:
<blockquote>
The association is grateful to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for apprehending suspected perpetrators of hooliganism at Barbourfields Stadium.
It is our sincere hope that criminals found guilty of disorderly conduct will face the full wrath of the law.
Further, we will push for further enforcement of lengthy stadium bans for anyone found causing trouble at stadiums.
Football is a team sport, and supporters should also play their part to keep the game civilized.
As a commercial sport, football needs order so that sponsors can feel proud to associate their brands with it.
That becomes extremely difficult if barbaric acts of pitch invasion and violence are a part of our game.
As the association, we will continue engaging all concerned stakeholders so that we can come up with foolproof solutions to the eternal challenge of hooliganism.
The association is also concerned by the offensive songs and chants peculiar to our football.
Going forward, the association is lobbying for an Exclusive Focus Group (EFG) to crackdown on offensive songs and tribal or racial chants which include offensive gestures and displaying of offensive messaging that cause feelings of discomfort and discrimination to rival supporters.
</blockquote>
ZIFA urged clubs and other football stakeholders to increase education and awareness campaigns to enlighten supporters on the dangers of violence at football matches.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIFA Wants Lengthy Stadium Bans For Football Hooligans, Crackdown On Tribal Chants

CCC Member of Parliament Gift “Ostallos” Siziba (Tshabalala-Pelandaba), was arrested on Wednesday on allegations of inciting the football violence that led to the abandonment of the league match between Dynamos and Highlanders at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.
Siziba, who is also CCC’s deputy spokesperson, was later released and ordered to appear in court on Friday.
Police did not state how Siziba, a Highlanders supporter, instigated the violence.
However, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday after the match had been abandoned, Siziba claimed he was at Barbourfields and captioned his picture, clad in Bosso regalia, with the words “We fear fokol”.
In a statement, CCC dismissed the allegations against Siziba, saying they were “false”. It said:
<blockquote>
Our MP for Pelandaba Tshabalala, [Gift Siziba], was arrested today on false allegations of inciting violence. Although he was later released, he has been summoned to court on Friday. 
The regime has intensified its crackdown against our members after a shambolic, disorganized, rigged and fraudulent election. This continued persecution must stop.
</blockquote>
Siziba’s arrest came a day after another CCC MP, Maureen Kademaunga, who is the MP for Sunningdale, was arrested on charges of attempted murder and malicious damage to property.
The charges were later dropped in court on Wednesday after Kademaunga had spent a night in a police cell.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Arrest CCC MP, Gift Siziba, Over Barbourfields Stadium Violence

Police have arrested nineteen (19) people in connection with football-related violence that prematurely ended the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between Dynamos and Highlanders at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday.
In a statement released on Wednesday 09 September, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), said investigations are ongoing to ensure that all suspects are brought to book. Police said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP reports that the total number of suspects arrested in connection with the public violence at Babourfields Stadium is now 19. Investigations are continuing with a view of accounting for all the suspects.
</blockquote>
Dynamos were leading 2-0 through goals from Keith Madera and Frank Makarati when Highlanders fans invaded the pitch resulting in the abandonment of the match in the first half.
Tampers flared seven minutes from halftime when Highlanders forward Mckinnon Mushore went down in the box under a challenge but referee Allan Basvi waved play on.
Highlanders fans thought the referee should have awarded their players a penalty. The fans invaded the pitch and fought running battles with the police.
Several police officers and fans were injured as Highlanders fans threw plastic bottles on the pitch and other objects.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

19 People Arrested Over Barbourfields Stadium Violence

Dynamos Football Club has condemned the hooliganism by fans during a Premier Soccer League (PSL) match at Barbourfields Stadium on Saturday.
DeMbare, who were the hosts, were held to a 0-0 draw by reigning champions FC Platinum.
<a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/dembare-accused-of-being-bad-tenants/">The Herald</a> reported that some Dynamos fans who were at the Mpilo End brought the fence down after the match.
Dynamos chief executive officer Jonathan Mashingaidze condemned the behaviour by the fans, saying it “taints” the club. Said Mashingaidze:
<blockquote>
As Dynamos we have zero tolerance to any form of conduct that brings the name of the club and the game into disrepute.
As a club, we won’t condone unruly behaviour that taints brand Dynamos.
We urge fans, through the marshals to identify such individuals who don’t value property and life so that they are brought to book.
As Dynamos, we want to show the world that football is a family sport, hence we urge fans to behave in a manner that promotes the sport.
</blockquote>
This is not the first time that Dynamos fans have damaged Barbourfields Stadium.
Last season, DeMbare supporters brought down the fence and uprooted the goalposts after their team’s 0-1 defeat to Highlanders.
Dynamos will likely be penalised by the Premier Soccer League (PSL) and the Bulawayo City Council, who are the proprietors of Barbourfields Stadium, for the damage.
Last year, Highlanders were forced to pay for the damages caused by Dynamos fans after being told that as the home team, they failed to provide adequate security.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dynamos "Hooligans" Damage Barbourfields Stadium

Football hooliganism reared its ugly head again on Saturday as Dynamos fans threw missiles at referees and injured one of the match officials during the 0-0 draw against Herentals at the National Sports Stadium on Saturday.
DeMbare supporters vented their frustrations towards referee Thabani Bamala and his assistants.
Bamala waved away two penalty appeals from Dynamos and also made some questionable decisions during the match, according to <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/dembare-fans-throw-missiles-injure-referee">The Sunday Mail</a>.
The hooligans then threw missiles at the officials as they made their way to the dressing room and injured one of the assistant referees, Edgar Rumeki, who suffered a deep cut on the arm.
They also threw objects at Herentals’ substitute goalkeeper Nevermind Antonio in the 72nd minute.
Antonio was shown a red card after remonstrating against the officials and he may face further sanctions from the Premier Soccer League (PSL) after he chose to go to the changing room via the pitch.
He also allegedly insulted a section of the Dynamos fans, who responded by throwing missiles, forcing play to be stopped for almost seven minutes.
DeMbare coach Herbert Maruwa bemoaned what he considered time-wasting by Herentals, saying it was killing local football. He said:
<blockquote>
It (time-wasting) is killing our football. But the good thing is that we play 34 games and this one is over.
</blockquote>
Herentals coach Kumbirai Mutiwekuziwa was not impressed by Maruwa’s remarks and accused the Dynamos gaffer of being a bad loser. He said:
<blockquote>
I have heard him talk about that several times when he loses points. If they are good, why can’t they win within those minutes?
We went to Chicken Inn, we lost and they withdrew ball boys, but we didn’t complain to the media. Let us not mix issues here.
</blockquote>
The issue of poor officiating has been topical in recent weeks, with FC Platinum coach Norman Mapeza threatening to quit football.
<blockquote>
Speaking after a 1-0 loss to Herentals in the Castle Lager Premier Soccer League at the National Sports Stadium on 01 May 2023, Mapeza said:
</blockquote>
I love soccer so much. I want to see these kids develop as footballers but these things are going to force me to quit football. Why am I here?
<blockquote>
I would rather go and rest. Someone can get hacked two, or three times in front of you, you leave it.
Let’s be honest, we are going nowhere (with our football).
Let’s help each other here, while we do our work, you (journalists) also have a role to play.
Let’s be truthful, is this what we are looking for in our football?
Let’s be honest, where are we going? We lost, it’s a game of football and I accept.
The emotions were too high, I had to say guys look, the match is almost over just continue.
I even asked the fourth official how many minutes have been added and he said he had not been signalled.
Signalled by who when the 45 minutes in the second half had already been played?
</blockquote>
In May last year, Dynamos was fined US$4 000 while their team manager Richard Chihoro was slapped with a US$2 000 fine for disturbances that occurred when DeMbare played Bulawayo Chiefs in a PSL match at Barbourfields Stadium in March.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Football Hooliganism: Dynamos Fans Throw Missiles, Injure Referee

The Premier Soccer League (PSL) has suspended all league matches with immediate effect following crowd trouble during a match between Highlanders and Dynamos at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday, 15 May.
The match was eventually abandoned after two lengthy stoppages. The first stoppage occurred in the 68th minute after Dynamos’s Bill Antonio had injured Highlanders defender Andrew Tandi.
The match resumed after about a quarter of an hour but was abandoned in the 90th minute after Dynamos fans uprooted goalposts and vandalised the nets protesting a Highlanders goal.
In a statement, the PSL said the suspension will enable authorities to address violence and hooliganism at football matches before the resumption of the league. Read the statement:
<blockquote>
The Premier Soccer League has suspended all Castle Lager PSL matches with immediate effect until further notice following incidents of violence and hooliganism that continue to take place in our football.
The PSL strongly condemns such acts as they can only serve to tarnish the beautiful game of football.
We are currently engaging all key stakeholders to find lasting solutions to these challenges.
We have scheduled a meeting with Security Officials including the Zimbabwe Republic Police, Club Security Officers and Marshals as well as stadium owners on Friday 20 May 2022.
Meanwhile, we have requested Highlanders FC, Dynamos FC and the ZRP to furnish us with reports detailing the events that transpired at Barbourfields Stadium on Sunday 15 May 2022. We will take disciplinary action after receiving the said reports.
We take this opportunity to apologise to all football loving fans, our sponsors and stakeholders.
We hope to address these challenges before resuming football matches.
</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h4>

Premier Soccer League Matches Suspended Indefinitely

Highlanders Football Club has implored its fans to distance themselves from a few individuals who incite violence at matches.
This comes after the Premier Soccer League (PSL) summoned the club to appear before the PSL Disciplinary Committee following violence that rocked the match between FC Platinum and Highlanders on 23 April this year.
A statement released by the club on Tuesday, 10 May, ahead of a PSL match against Dynamos, read:
<blockquote>
Esteemed Highlanders Football Family! I hope I find you all in good standing as we prepare for the big grand stage of the Zim Football this Sunday 15 May 2022 at the Highlanders FC Spiritual home, eMagumeni.
The Highlanders Leadership would like to invite all its facets of fans to come in numbers with their families, friends and associates to support and encourage their team to complete a double within a month over our fiercest competitor in National Football, Dynamos FC.
This is also a passionate plea to our fans to be hospitable to our visitors and ourselves in hosting them in and outside the Stadium and Bulawayo City in general.
Passion, respect and love are the cornerstone of our 96 years of existence and should be cherished and remembered this Sunday as we host Dynamos in our first leg of the League season 2022.
We note with concern a few individuals purporting to be Football Fans inciting violence in the name of Highlanders a practice clearly not synonymous with our Culture.
This should be condemned with the contempt it deserves and urges all Highlanders and Football fraternity to identify and eliminate such minds from near our Club.
Meanwhile, The Highlanders Executive is seized with finding an immediate but lasting solution to the bad patch that the Team is going through.
We acknowledge the anxiety that this lean spell has caused our Members and Fans and are equally concerned and want to promise you all that we are about to find and implement what we believe will heal us all and turn around the fortunes of this Institution we call our Heritage.
We Thank You!
</blockquote>
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Highlanders Urges Fans To Desist From Football Hooliganism

This is part of a report by Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Zvishavane District on the violence that disrupted a Castle Lager Premier Soccer League match between FC Platinum and Highlanders at Mandava Stadium on Saturday, 23 April.
<h2>POLICE REPORT: BOSSO FANS ON RAMPAGE DESTROYING PROPERTY IN ZVISHAVANE</h2>
<h2>CIRCUMSTANCES-</h2>
<blockquote>
On the 23rd day of April 2022 and at Mandava Stadium, Zvishavane, FC Platinum Football Club hosted Highlanders Football club in a Premier League Soccer Match.
The match started at 1500 hours and about 1 200 fans were in attendance. Members from DUB, SU, CID and Canine were on deployment under Zvishavane DHQ Operation Order Number 13/22.
In the 81st minute, FC Platinum was awarded a penalty and Highlanders players led by Peter Muduwa shirt number 21 disputed the decision.
Supporters on the Eastern stand who were predominantly in black and white regalia and supporting Highlanders reacted to the penalty decision by throwing missiles in the form of water bottles and stones into the pitch toward players, match officials and the police that had formed a barricade forcing the match officials to stop the match.
The rowdy supporters moved in, scaled the perimeter fence and charged toward the police who retreated to allow the Highlanders captain, Highlanders marshals and the police command to intervene with dialogue. The mediation took about 20 minutes.
As the Highlanders captain Ariel Sibanda, marshals and the police were engaging with the Highlanders supporters to calm down, the Highlanders Team manager Vezigama Dlodlo [NFPK] withdrew the captain and when the players were about to resume playing, the Highlanders supporters became more provoked and the situation degenerated into violence.
The Highlanders supporters intensified throwing missiles, invaded the pitch and tore advertisement billboards.
They also started throwing missiles at FC Platinum supporters on the western grandstand. 
One Police Dog Ceaser, number PD1215 on deployment from Gweru Canine was struck by a stone. The Police Dog sustained minor injuries and is limping. 
FC platinum team bus, Scania, green in colour registration mark FC Plats was struck with a stone on its right side window panel. It was parked behind the VIP grandstand.
The bus sustained a shattered right side window panel consisting of a large hole in the middle of the panel. ZRP Zvishavane RRB number 5068641 refers.
Upon realising that the situation was getting out of hand, police created escape routes on the eastern, western and main gates and repelled the advancing mob with tear smoke after dialogue had failed and the threat was increasing. 
After having been driven out of the stadium, the Highlanders supporters went on terrorising motorists from the stadium up to the CBD.
In the CBD, a Blue Horizon bus registration number AEG 1054 being driven by Christopher Mutupo a male aged 42 years Nr 83-098612C-83 of 6256 Chikanga township, Mutare and plying the Bulawayo-Chiredzi route was struck by a stone seemingly by the Highlanders supporters heading towards Bulawayo.
The bus sustained a shattered right side window panel. Value damaged to be established. ZRP Zvishavane RRB number 5068639 refers.
No causalities were recorded as the mob was repelled by Police with tear smoke.
A total of 15 accused persons were arrested and detained for “disorderly conduct as defined in section 41 of the Criminal law [Codification and Reform] Chapter 9.23. ZRP Zvishavane 1049/22-1063/22 refers. See Annexture “A” attached.
Investigations are in progress. 
ZRP ZVISHAVANE DISTRICT HEADQUARTERS
</blockquote>
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