Tight Security at Moses Mabhida: No Guns Allowed at Soweto Derby

Rethabile Nyelele7 May , 2025

With tensions and excitement mounting ahead of the highly anticipated Nedbank Cup final, also known as the Soweto Derby, between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates, KwaZulu-Natal authorities have issued a stern warning to all attendees. No weapons will be tolerated at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner, Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, clarified that security will be uncompromising this weekend during the Soweto Derby. He warned that no one, including those who regard themselves as VIPs, would be exempt from the law.

“Regardless of your status, you are not allowed to bring firearms or any dangerous weapons into the stadium. Those who travel with bodyguards should be warned. In this province, the law is enforced strictly. If you break it during this Soweto Derby, you might hear the scoreline from behind bars,” he cautioned during a media briefing on Tuesday.

Massive Crowds Expected for Soweto Derby

The showdown between Chiefs and Pirates, two of the most supported football teams in the country, will be played in Durban this Saturday. Anticipation is high, with thousands of supporters expected to descend on eThekwini. Law enforcement has prepared extensively for the occasion. Measures are in place to ensure the safety of both fans and teams.

Strict Road Rules and Behaviour Expected

Mkhwanazi also addressed issues beyond stadium security, stressing that reckless behaviour on the roads — including driving under the influence or using unregistered vehicles — would not be tolerated. “We have established a detailed safety plan to protect all involved. This includes spectators and officials. We call on visitors to conduct themselves responsibly while in the city.”

As part of preparations, a special planning unit has been activated to manage safety and logistics around the Soweto Derby event.

Ticketing Chaos Frustrates Fans

Chaos erupted in the build-up to the final after ticket sales went into disarray. Open Tickets, the service provider working with Computicket, struggled to meet demand on Monday. This led to repeated system failures and frustration among fans, many of whom waited in long queues at Checkers and Shoprite outlets only to leave empty-handed.

In response to the situation, Mkhwanazi warned supporters not to come near the stadium without a valid match-day ticket. “Enjoy our city and beaches, but do not risk coming to the Soweto Derby if you do not have a ticket.”

City Assures Readiness for Major Event

Despite the ticketing challenges, eThekwini mayor Cyril Xaba reassured fans that the city is well-equipped to handle such major events. “We’ve hosted this derby before and always delivered a secure and memorable experience. We intend to do so again.”

Stadium Infrastructure Not Affected by Upgrades

Vusi Mazibuko, head of stadiums and facilities in eThekwini, confirmed that the ongoing upgrades at the 2010 FIFA World Cup venue would not impact the game. “Moses Mabhida remains structurally sound and fully operational. Our maintenance work does not disrupt events,” he said. He cited previous successful football fixtures and concerts held during ongoing renovations.

Comprehensive Safety Plan in Place

Municipal spokesperson Gugu Sisilana added that a comprehensive safety and security strategy had been finalized. It involves multiple enforcement agencies to ensure that the day proceeds without incident.

As fans across the country gear up for what is often called “the biggest match on the South African football calendar”, the message from authorities is clear. Enjoy the Soweto Derby spectacle, but respect the rules — or face the consequences.