Orlando Pirates offer refunds after stadium lockdown over counterfeit tickets

Orlando Pirates have apologised to supporters who were unable to enter the Orlando Amstel Arena for Saturday’s Betway Premiership match against Milford FC, after the venue was placed under lockdown because of counterfeit-ticket activity and unlawful attempts to enter the stadium.

The Buccaneers began their Betway Premiership title defence with a 2-0 victory, but disorder was reported outside the ground shortly afterwards. Videos shared on social media showed unruly scenes around the stadium, with some supporters unable to gain entry despite having tickets.

Orlando Pirates said the decision to close the gates was made by the Venue Operations Centre (VOC) because of concerns over public safety. The club has appointed Open Tickets to manage refunds for supporters who held valid tickets but could not attend the match because of the lockdown.

In a statement, Orlando Pirates said: “Orlando Pirates Football Club sincerely apologizes to all the supporters who experienced inconvenience during Saturday’s Betway Premiership fixture against Milford FC at Orlando Amstel Arena.

“The Club confirms that the decision to close the stadium gates during the match was made by the Venue Operations Centre (VOC) in the interest of public safety. This operational measure was implemented to safeguard the wellbeing and security of all spectators, players, match officials, staff, and other stakeholders present at the venue.

“The circumstances that led to the stadium lockdown arose from the continued activities of criminal syndicates operating in and around the stadium precinct. These groups are involved in the sale of counterfeit match tickets and facilitating the unlawful entry of individuals without valid tickets into the venue, creating an unacceptable risk to public safety and the safe management of the event.

“While the decision to close the stadium was beyond the Club’s control, Orlando Pirates fully acknowledges the frustration and disappointment experienced by supporters who held valid match tickets but were unable to gain entry due to the stadium lockdown.

“To support those affected, the Club has appointed Open Tickets to administer the refund process. Supporters who purchased valid match tickets for the fixture but were unable to access the stadium due to the lockdown are eligible to apply for a refund.

“Supporters who are eligible for a refund are requested to contact Open Tickets atsupport@opentickets.co.zato initiate the refund process.

“Orlando Pirates Football Club remains committed to working closely with the Premier Soccer League, stadium management, law enforcement agencies, and all relevant stakeholders to strengthen matchday operations, combat criminal activity, and ensure a safe, secure, and enjoyable matchday experience for every supporter.”

Supporters eligible for compensation are being asked to contact Open Tickets to begin the refund process. The club said the arrangement applies to those who bought valid match tickets for the fixture but were prevented from entering because the stadium was locked down.

The incident followed the opening match of Orlando Pirates’ title defence and prompted the club to acknowledge the disruption caused to supporters. Although the decision to close the stadium was made by the VOC and was outside the club’s control, Orlando Pirates said it understood the anger and disappointment of fans affected by the operation.

The club also said it would continue working with the Premier Soccer League, stadium management, law enforcement agencies and other relevant stakeholders. Its stated aim is to improve matchday operations, tackle criminal activity around the venue and provide a safe and secure experience for supporters attending future fixtures.