Government Enforces New Security Measures to Curb Stadium Violence Ahead of ABSA Cup Semifinals

25.04.2025 | Football DNA

Government Issues Strong Measures Following Stadium Violence

Hon. Elvis Nkandu, MP, the Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, announced that the government had taken decisive action following the unfortunate incidents of vandalism and hooliganism during a recent league match at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

He stated that an urgent meeting had been convened with key stakeholders, including representatives from ZESCO United, Power Dynamos, Red Arrows, and Nkana Football Club. The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ), the Zambia Premier League, Absa Bank Zambia, and the National Sports Council of Zambia were also in attendance.

According to the Minister, the meeting had resolved to implement both immediate and long-term measures aimed at restoring order, ensuring fan safety, and protecting the integrity of Zambian football. These measures, he revealed, would be enforced ahead of the ABSA Cup semifinals scheduled for 26th April 2025 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.

The resolutions, as communicated by the Minister, included:

1. Increased Security Presence: He confirmed that over 300 state security officers would be deployed during the ABSA Cup semifinal matches to ensure safety and prevent further disturbances.

   
   

2. Ban on Potential Missiles: He noted that strict entry measures would be introduced to prevent fans from carrying objects that could be thrown and used to cause harm.

   
   

3. Restrictions on Alcohol Containers: While alcohol sales would not be banned outright, the Minister clarified that only plastic cups would be allowed, with bottles and cans strictly prohibited.

   
   

4. No Ticket, No Entry: He emphasized that only fans with valid matchday tickets would be granted entry, urging supporters to buy tickets from designated outlets.

   
   

5. Clubs to Sign Code of Conduct: The Minister explained that all participating clubs would be required to sign a binding Code of Conduct, holding them accountable for their supporters' and officials’ behavior.

   
   

6. Anti-Vandalism Campaigns: He announced that educational campaigns would be launched before, during, and after the matches to promote respect for sports infrastructure.

   
   

7. Enhanced VVIP Area Security: Additional security would be placed in VIP and VVIP areas, he said, to maintain order and preserve the dignity of these zones.

   
   

8. Disciplinary Action: The Minister warned that individuals involved in violence or vandalism would face severe disciplinary measures, stressing that no one would be above the rules.

   
   

9. Steward Induction: All match stewards, he added, would undergo mandatory induction to ensure they were well-prepared for their duties.

   
   

10. Installation of CCTV Cameras: The Minister disclosed that stadiums would be fitted with CCTV systems to help deter misconduct and assist in post-match reviews.

    
    

11. Nkana FC Held Liable for Damages: He announced that Nkana Football Club had been held responsible for damaging 506 seats and would also bear the cost of repairing 2,300 previously damaged seats.

Hon. Nkandu reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards violence and vandalism in sport. He stressed that football should continue to serve as a unifying force in Zambia and called on all stakeholders and fans to uphold the spirit of the game.

He concluded by urging supporters to channel their passion positively, reminding them that respect for the sport, its facilities, and fellow fans must always come first.