KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli has praised football supporters and residents for their peaceful conduct during the 2026 MTN8 final, which saw Mamelodi Sundowns defeat Orlando Pirates 2-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Ntuli commended the actions of the supporters, saying they helped protect the event from disruptions and supported tourism and economic development in the province. The premier congratulated Sundowns on their victory and extended his best wishes to the players, technical team, management, and supporters.
Ntuli also commended Orlando Pirates for their participation in the prestigious tournament. He thanked the thousands of football supporters, residents, and visitors who contributed to the vibrant atmosphere, showcasing KwaZulu-Natal as a destination for major sporting events. The premier highlighted the benefits of hosting such events, including stimulating economic activity, promoting tourism, and supporting local businesses. He noted that major sporting events are more than just football matches, but important economic drivers that create opportunities for the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
Ntuli emphasized that hosting major sporting events provides significant opportunities for the hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, transport operators, informal traders, entertainment establishments, and small businesses. He said that these events create opportunities for local businesses and position KwaZulu-Natal as a preferred destination for tourism, investment, and entertainment. The premier appreciated every supporter and visitor who contributed to the atmosphere and economic activity surrounding the occasion.
KwaZulu-Natal police arrested a man on Saturday after he allegedly threatened that he and his followers would shut down Moses Mabhida Stadium to prevent the MTN8 final from taking place. Police said the suspect had gathered a group of people at King Dinizulu Park with the intention of staging a march. However, those who were with him managed to run away. The police are reiterating that anyone who threatens to cause instability will be dealt with in accordance with the law.
Police initially arrested 15 suspects on Friday night following violent protests in Durban and neighboring suburbs, taking the total number of arrests to 19. The number has since increased to 25. The total includes four suspects arrested on Thursday for attempted murder and discharging a firearm in public. The suspects will face charges of public violence and malicious damage to property, with additional charges possible.
According to police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda, two houses were burnt in the Umbilo area, and several shops were damaged in and around Durban, whilst a few of those damaged shops were looted. He said most of the arrested suspects were students and that intelligence officers and detectives were continuing to search for those responsible for the burning of vehicles and buildings.
Ntuli urged residents to continue exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest responsibly while working with law enforcement agencies and government structures to maintain public safety, protect infrastructure, and promote social stability. He reaffirmed the provincial government's commitment to attracting major national and international sporting events to grow tourism, stimulate economic development, support township and local economies, and create opportunities for the people of KwaZulu-Natal.
Key points
- KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thami Ntuli commends football supporters and residents for their peaceful conduct during the 2026 MTN8 final.
- Mamelodi Sundowns won the 2026 MTN8 title after defeating Orlando Pirates 2-0 at Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
- Police arrested 25 suspects in connection with violent protests and damage to property in Durban and neighboring suburbs.
