The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) has condemned the ugly violence witnessed at Maglas Stadium in Zvishavane during the abandoned Central Region Soccer League match between Shabanie Mine and Gwanda Pirates.
Supporters of the two sides clashed in the stands before a Gwanda Pirates fan was stabbed by a knife.
The match was abandoned in the 68th minute.
Despite efforts by police details to restore order, Gwanda players were trapped inside the stadium and had to leave around 19:00.
“The Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) expresses its deepest regret and condemnation of the violent attack that occurred during the ZIFA Central Region Division One
match between Shabanie Mine FC and Gwanda Pirates, resulting in the abandonment of the game and serious injuries to two individuals,” said ZIFA in a statement.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident. Our heartfelt thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time, and we wish them a full and speedy recovery.
“Football must be a unifying force – never a source of harm, fear, or division. What transpired is deeply troubling and completely unacceptable.
“It represents a failure in our collective duty to provide a safe environment for players, officials, and fans. ZIFA takes this matter with the utmost seriousness and has already instituted a full and independent investigation to determine the circumstances
leading to this attack.
“In parallel, we are initiating the following immediate corrective measures:
- A comprehensive review and overhaul of our match-day security protocols, including
the deployment, training, and coordination of stewards and security personnel. - Tightened access control and screening procedures at all sanctioned matches to
Prevent the entry of weapons or other dangerous items. - Enforced crowd control measures, including the separation of rival supporters at fixtures deemed high-risk.
“ZIFA will be working in close coordination with the ZIFA Central Region leadership, law enforcement, club management, and community stakeholders to restore trust and ensure accountability.
Disciplinary measures will be taken against any individuals or entities found to have contributed to or failed to prevent this regrettable incident.
“Violence has absolutely no place in our game. ZIFA remains firmly committed to protecting the integrity of foot”
