4 arrested after Hardrock-Dynamos fan riots

Four men have been arrested following violent clashes between supporters that forced the abandonment of a Sunday league match between Hardrock and Dynamos at Chahwanda Stadium in Kwekwe.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirmed the arrest of Shingirai Chivavare (34), Matthias Taderera (43), Tavakuda Nyoni (46) and Emmanuel Dube (50) after chaos erupted during the match, which was halted in the 80th minute.

Police said tensions flared after a disputed penalty decision awarded to the home side, resulting in a 1–1 scoreline before the situation escalated.

Supporters from both teams reportedly hurled missiles at each other before invading the pitch and engaging in violent confrontations, forcing officials to abandon the game.

Seven fans sustained injuries and were admitted to Kwekwe General Hospital in stable condition.

Stadium infrastructure, including turnstiles and perimeter barricades, was also damaged during the unrest.

Authorities are now investigating how nearly 5,000 fans who were unable to enter the stadium forced their way inside, allegedly contributing to the violence.

The Premier Soccer League said it is awaiting official match reports before taking disciplinary action, adding that both clubs have been instructed to submit written accounts of the incident.

The league warned that those found guilty of misconduct would face full sanctions.

Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged clubs to enforce stadium capacity limits and improve ticketing systems to avoid overcrowding and stampede risks.

The ZRP said it will engage the Zimbabwe Football Association and PSL administrators to strengthen stadium safety measures going forward.

"The public is warned against engaging in violence, vandalism or any form of public disorder, as offenders will be dealt with in accordance with the law," Nyathi said.