Durban Declared Safe for MTN8 Final Despite Violent CBD Protests
Authorities have moved to calm fears over Saturday’s MTN8 final. The match between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns will go ahead at Moses Mabhida Stadium, they say, with a full security plan already in motion.
The assurance follows sporadic violent protests in the Durban CBD on Thursday and Friday, amid unrest in the city over illegal immigration.
In a statement, eThekwini Municipality said the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS) has put “the necessary safety and security measures in place to ensure safety, peace and stability before, during and after” the final.
PROVJOINTS includes the SAPS, Durban Metro Police, the Road Traffic Inspectorate and private security.
The operation covers traffic management, stadium and fan park safety, and overall order.
“KwaZulu-Natal PROVJOINTS wishes to assure football lovers that the city of Durban and the surrounding areas are safe,” the statement said. It added that the match “will take place in a safe and secure environment.”
Despite Thursday’s violence, officials say the province, including host city Durban, has been relatively calm. Police will keep up their visibility to stop “criminal elements” from sabotaging the final.
PROVJOINTS also hit out at misleading social media posts. It said they are aimed at causing “panic and confusion” about whether the match will go ahead.
Police management has assured the Premier Soccer League that security planning remains intact. Anyone who tries to breach security or endanger spectators, officials or players “will be met with the full force of the law.”
What fans need to know:
Arrive early to avoid traffic congestion and last-minute rushes.
No weapons are allowed inside the stadium, including guns, knives and bottles.
Moses Mabhida Stadium and its surroundings are a no-fly zone. Unauthorised drones are banned.
The final kicks off at 6 on Saturday evening, 10 October 2026.
