KWEKWE - Soccer fans are split after the dramatic arrest of Hardrock FC CEO Kudzanai Hove following violent scenes that forced the abandonment of Sunday’s clash against Dynamos at Chahwanda Stadium.
Police confirmed Hove’s arrest yesterday but gave no further details, saying a full statement would be issued “in due course.”
Tensions boiled over in the 78th minute when Dynamos led 2-1.
A disputed penalty call sparked pitch invasions from both sets of supporters. Objects rained from the stands and players were forced to flee to the dressing rooms as riot police moved in.
The PSL fixture was abandoned. At least three people were treated for minor injuries.
Hardrock FC today moved to suspend Hove indefinitely, pending investigations.
“Such conduct is contrary to the values of the club and has no place in football,” the club said in a statement.
“As Hardrock FC, we will work closely with the Zimbabwe Republic Police and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that everyone who played a role in causing the abandonment of the fixture is brought to book. We remain committed to cooperating fully with the investigation and to upholding the integrity of the game.”
The suspension has sparked fierce debate online after footage showed Hove in a heated scuffle with a Dynamos player. In the clip, Hove is seen pushing the player to the ground with his foot before gesturing to the crowd, seemingly pleading for calm.
Some fans insist he was protecting the player. “Hove was clearly trying to protect the player. You can see that he placed his foot on his chest to make him lie down and avoid the marauding supporters,” one supporter said.
Another fan, posting as @Blackandproud on X, argued: “Dude was actually restraining Hardrock supporters… without him and like-minded persons, rimwe ringadai rakaita mbiri yekutanga kufira muChahwanda.” Translation: Someone could have been the first to die at Chahwanda.
Others are unconvinced. “Of course, because in Kwekwe ‘restraining people’ now apparently includes repeatedly stomping on someone’s head. Truly commendable peacekeeping tactics,” wrote a fan under the handle Sebagondwe.
The PSL is expected to rule on disciplinary action against Hardrock FC this week.
Police have not said what charges Hove faces.
Hardrock, a Midlands-based outfit promoted to the top flight last season, has had a rocky debut campaign both on and off the pitch. Sunday’s abandonment was the second time Chahwanda Stadium has seen violence this season.