Mzilikazi residents count losses after BF violence

Residents of Bulawayo's Mzilikazi high-density suburb have grown increasingly concerned about the recurring losses they suffer whenever soccer matches at the nearby Barbourfields Stadium escalate into violence.

The community recently experienced the repercussions of Sunday's violent outbreak, which occurred during a football match between Dynamos and Highlanders. The match, featuring these two soccer powerhouses, was prematurely abandoned in the first half due to pitch invasions by fans who accused match officials of bias.

During separate interviews conducted yesterday, residents expressed their frustration, noting that they are consistently affected whenever violence erupts at the stadium.

Desmond Khumalo, a resident from Mzilikazi's L'square area, shared his distress as his property incurred damage when the police clashed with football fans. He recounted, "They sprayed water indiscriminately, and the high-pressure streams hit our windows, with some entering our kitchen. I was peacefully sitting in my house after returning from church when chaos suddenly unfolded."

Another resident, living in close proximity to the stadium, recounted how her friend's car was inadvertently crashed into by a police truck while attempting to reverse and escape from the rampaging soccer fans. Terrified fans fleeing from the police sought refuge in the homes of local residents.

Residents also disclosed that property was destroyed in the midst of the disturbances as enraged fans ran riot. National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi subsequently confirmed in a statement that eight people sustained injuries during the clashes, including both policemen and fans.