In anticipation of the highly anticipated Soweto derby between Orlando Pirates and Kaizer Chiefs, Stadium Management SA has issued a stern warning to fans, advising them to ensure they have tickets in hand or risk facing arrest if they approach the venue. This move comes as part of enhanced safety and security measures at the FNB Stadium, following a threat from Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie to hold SMSA officials accountable for any lapses in fan safety during the match.
The security measures have been put in place after incidents in the past, highlighting the need for strict controls. Fans are urged to comply with the regulations to avoid any inconvenience. Meanwhile, in a separate development, Prest Business Supplies' application for an immediate R4m payment from the Johannesburg Development Agency was dismissed, leading to a full trial to resolve the dispute over unverified engineering services and conflicting fee calculations for the Rea Vaya Selby bus depot project.
On another note, the trial of the accused in the murder of rapper Kiernan "AKA" Forbes and his friend Tebello "Tibz" Motsoane has seen the defence grill the state's leading witness, Sgt Rajen Sanders, over his expertise in analysing CCTV footage. Sanders had linked three men as the spotter, tail, and supplier of guns used in the murder, based on 17 video clips.
The defence's line of questioning aimed to challenge the credibility of the evidence presented by Sanders, whose analysis was crucial in tracing the movements of the accused. The murder took place on February 10, 2023, when AKA and Tibz were gunned down outside the Wish Restaurant on Florida Road in Durban.
As the Soweto derby approaches, authorities are working to ensure that all safety protocols are in place. The Sports Minister's warning underscores the government's commitment to preventing any potential security breaches during the event. Fans are advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.
In the case of Prest Business Supplies, the dispute with the Johannesburg Development Agency will now proceed to a full trial, with both parties set to present their arguments in court. The outcome of the trial will have implications for future projects and contracts between the parties.
The AKA murder trial continues to draw attention, with the defence's cross-examination of key witnesses likely to play a crucial role in determining the accused's guilt or innocence. The case has sparked widespread interest, given the high profile of the victim and the complexity of the evidence presented.
Key points
- Security tightened at Soweto derby with warnings of arrest for ticketless fans
- Dispute between Prest Business Supplies and Johannesburg Development Agency to go to trial
- Defence challenges state's witness in AKA murder trial
