Sport and Recreation Minister Makhosini Hlongwane yesterday added his voice in denouncing acts of hooliganism that have been witnessed recently at football matches following riots by Dynamos supporters who engaged in running battles with the police.
Hlongwane yesterday said ugly scenes that engulfed Rufaro on Sunday were a bad advertisement to sport and urged ZIFA to take punitive measures to nip the problem in the bud.
The minister wrote a letter to the Sports Commission expressing Government’s concerns at the disturbances while police said they were investigating the incident and looking for those who provoked the violence.
In a statement, the minister said Government does not condone acts that scare aware investment.
Hlongwane also denounced the recent antics by the ZIFA Women Soccer League board member, Cecilia Gambe, who invaded the pitch at Sakubva protesting the referee’s decisions during a league match between Mutare City Rovers and How Mine.
“Please note that it is most disturbing that the image of Zimbabwe football should take a battering due to the behaviour of a senior ZIFA (women’s football) executive committee member who not only invades the pitch but goes on to threaten the referee of the match.
“It is further disturbing that, contrary to the values of sport, Dynamos fans went on a rampage, destroying property and attacking individuals in ugly scenes of violence at Rufaro Stadium after the match.
“Please advise ZIFA that: 1) Government is concerned by this violent behaviour which should not be allowed to continue.
2) That remedial action should be taken to arrest all errant behaviour at, during and after the matches so as to encourage investment in sport in general and football in particular,” said Hlongwane.
Dynamos face heavy sanctions from the Premier Soccer League for the actions of their supporters.
Sports Commission acting director general, Joseph Muchechetere, also condemned the violence.
The PSL office yesterday were still waiting for detailed reports from the police and the match officials but they indicated action will be taken against the Harare giants.
In a statement, the league’s communications and media liaison officer Kudzai Bare said the league was worried with the recent turn of events at Rufaro.
- Herald
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