Man arrested over threats to shut down Moses Mabhida Stadium

A man who allegedly threatened to shut down Moses Mabhida Stadium to prevent the MTN8 Cup final between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns from going ahead has been arrested by KwaZulu-Natal police.

The suspect was arrested on Saturday afternoon after allegedly gathering a group of people at King Dinizulu Park in Durban with the intention of staging a march, police said.

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KZN police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda said those who had gathered with the suspect managed to flee.

Police have reiterated that anyone threatening to cause instability would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

The arrest comes amid heightened tensions in Durban following days of violent anti-immigration protests, which have resulted in 19 arrests, according to police.

Fifteen suspects were arrested on Friday night, while four others were arrested on Thursday in connection with attempted murder and discharging a firearm in public.

The unrest has seen vehicles torched, two houses burnt in the Umbilo area and several shops damaged, with some also looted.

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Police have said intelligence officers and detectives are continuing to investigate the violence and identify those responsible for the damage.

Police had earlier dismissed rumours circulating on social media about the MTN8 Cup final, confirming that the match between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns would proceed as planned at Moses Mabhida Stadium.

Authorities said measures had been put in place to protect spectators, players and officials, adding that all roads leading to the stadium would remain open.

Police warned that anyone attempting to stage a protest on routes leading to the stadium or in its vicinity would face legal action.

The latest arrest follows police warnings that further demonstrations could take place over the weekend and into next week.

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Netshiunda previously said police had deployed intelligence teams to identify potential flashpoints and respond to possible incidents.

Investigations into the protest-related violence are continuing, with police indicating that further arrests may follow.