A strong police contingent has been deployed at the Durban Magistrates’ Court as members of the March and March movement gather for the first court appearance of individuals arrested for allegedly plotting to disrupt the MTN8 final over the weekend.
Those arrested reportedly include individuals identified as alleged ringleaders who threatened to disrupt the match between Orlando Pirates and Mamelodi Sundowns.
The arrests follow days of unrest in Durban, during which 14 vehicles were allegedly torched, two houses set alight and several shops looted since Thursday.
Police have also responded to sporadic looting in the Durban central business district amid heightened tensions.
Meanwhile, anti-illegal immigration groups have criticised the arrests, as the matter comes before the court.
Further details surrounding the charges and the outcome of the court appearance are expected to emerge as proceedings continue.