One man will be spending the weekend behind bars after he was caught selling tickets intended for event sponsors outside Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban ahead of the highly anticipated Nedbank Cup final.
Suspect nabbed selling ‘sponsored’ Soweto Derby tickets
The suspect was also found in possession of access wristbands meant to be distributed to service providers, according to law enforcement officials.
The arrest took place amid heightened security measures around the stadium, where Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates are set to face off in the Soweto Derby on Saturday, 10 May 2025.
Police and security personnel were on alert following days of public frustration over ticketing issues, with some fans expressing outrage online after being unable to secure tickets through the official system.
According to eyewitnesses, the suspect was apprehended by security forces who were specifically on the lookout for unauthorised reselling of match tickets. The tickets in question were not meant for public sale; they had been allocated to sponsors of the event and are typically non-transferable.
Wristbands found with the suspect are usually given to service providers to identify authorised personnel with special access to restricted areas.
KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda confirmed the arrest but did not provide the suspect’s identity. “He was found selling match day tickets which were issued to sponsors, as well as wristbands meant for service providers,” Netshiunda said.
“Investigations are continuing, and more arrests have not been ruled out.”
The incident comes in the wake of mounting public criticism over the way ticket sales were handled for the Nedbank Cup final. Tickets sold out rapidly, leaving many supporters—some of whom had already paid for transport and accommodation in Durban—without access to the stadium.
The system used for the sales was described by fans as confusing and inefficient, sparking widespread dissatisfaction.
In response, the eThekwini Municipality announced two official fan parks for those who missed out on stadium tickets. Located at Durban’s beachfront and Albert Park, the venues open at noon on match day and promise entertainment, big screens, family-friendly activities, and high security.
Dr Muzi Mazibuko, speaking on behalf of the city’s emergency services, said, “The two fan parks are set to bring unmatched atmosphere, action and an electrifying mood to the Soweto derby.”
For those who prefer to watch from home, the match will be broadcast live on SABC Sport and SuperSport. It will also be available for streaming via DStv Stream and SABC Plus.
Meanwhile, the Premier Soccer League (PSL) continues to face questions, not just over ticketing but also its coordination with high-profile guests. King Misuzulu kaZwelithini, who was initially scheduled to attend the match, officially withdrew on Friday. In a statement from his office, the King cited the PSL’s failure to coordinate necessary safety and ceremonial arrangements as the reason for his absence.
Authorities have warned fans to avoid buying tickets from unauthorised sellers and reminded the public that law enforcement remains on high alert throughout the weekend.
