Soccer ‘hooligans’ appear in court

A group of alleged soccer hooligans arrested after the havoc at a match between Kaizer Chiefs and Free State Stars at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in April appeared in the Durban Magistrate’s Court yesterday.

The 11 men are facing charges of public violence and pitch invasion.

Dennis Nyembe‚ Phelelani Jojisa‚ Sihle Zungu‚ Zibongile Njova‚ Nolwethu Sokotha‚ Lungisani Jaca‚ Douglas Mkhize‚ Cebolendoda Hadebe‚ Khwezilomo Madiba‚ John Khumalo and Siphosenkosi Memela are all out on bail.

The matter was adjourned to August 2 for pretrial.

Madiba is understood to have been caught on camera allegedly kicking a security guard in the face.

Memela and Khumalo are alleged to have tampered with camera equipment.

All the suspects have been barred from attending any sporting fixture or recreational gathering until the case is over.

On April 21‚ police and stadium security were overrun as fans invaded the pitch at the end of the game‚ heading directly for embattled Chiefs coach Steve Komphela‚ who quit immediately after the match.

The pandemonium left many people injured and property damaged.

The damage to the stadium and technical equipment belonging to broadcasters is believed to have amounted to millions.

Two vehicles parked at the back of the stadium were also damaged.