Calls mount for stern sanctions

PITCH INVASION: SECURITY GUARD SEVERELY ASSAULTED

Cost of the damage has not yet been calculated but could run into millions.

There were more calls from various sectors of society yesterday for stringent punishment to be meted out to clubs and supporters to curb incidents of fan violence.

This after the shameful acts of field invasion and assault of security personnel by Kaizer Chiefs fans after their team were beaten 2-0 by Free State Stars in a Nedbank Cup semifinal at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday night.

Political parties, football authorities and others have all condemned the riots which left 18 people injured.

Chiefs fans stormed the pitch shortly after the final whistle and charged at players, officials and security guards.

Video footage shows a group of men assaulting a security guard who was on the ground. As she tries to crawl away, another man kicks her in the head and the assault continues until she is unconscious. The condition of the woman was unclear at the time of going to print.

Seats were also set alight as fans rioted and the damage to the stadium is yet to be calculated but it could run into millions of rand.

“Costs are still being counted, but we can confirm there is extensive damage to the stadium, including seating, crowd barriers and access gates,” said Moses Mabhida Stadium’s Vusi Mazibuko.

“Five vehicles were damaged in the media parking area. We will confirm within the next 48 hours the total sum of damages.”

Similar incidents have happened before but Saturday’s was the worst in recent years. Last year Orlando Pirates fans rioted and invaded the pitch at Loftus Versfeld in Pretoria and damaged broadcasters’ equipment.

Chiefs were recently fined R250 000 for an incident at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg a few weeks ago where their fans pelted the team and officials with missiles following a league defeat to Chippa United.

Two men were arrested in connection with Saturday’s incident.

We can confirm there is extensive damage