The police have arrested five men following a protest at the Loftus stadium in Hatfield, Tshwane district. The suspects will be facing charges which include public violence, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and malicious damage to property.
On Sunday, 11 May 2025 just after 16:30 during a soccer match halftime, a group of about 150 people started protesting. Members from Public Order Police approached the protesters to try to talk to them but they allegedly turned violent, started hurling objects at the police. The police managed to stabilise the protesters and arrested five men.
The police have a responsibility to act when a protest becomes disruptive, interferes with the event or endangers other people as per the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act 2 of 2010. The Act focuses on ensuring the safety and security of sports, recreational, religious, cultural, and similar events held in South Africa. It aims to protect the well-being of participants and spectators.
The suspects will be appearing before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, 13 May 2025.