South Africa is hosting the Netball World Cup for the first time on African soil. But the organization is not up to scratch, according to players from Jamaica. The team captain has reportedly been the victim of theft.
It was ecstasy for South Africa to host the Netball World Cup. In the 60 years of its existence, no African country had ever hosted this competition. It was therefore a great first for the Rainbow Nation. But a case of theft threatens to tarnish South Africa's image. Jamaican players were allegedly robbed in their hotel, located just a few meters from the Cape Town International Convention Centre.
"It's so unfortunate. This place is not safe. First they stole money from my handbag, now people are trying to come and see us in our rooms. Really!" said Jamaican Netball captain Jhaniele Fowler on her Instagram account. But the player eventually deleted the post. But that didn't stop her teammate Shamera Sterling from crying foul. "It looks like we're in the street. We're not safe. I'm ready to go home," she insists.
Organizers defend and reassure
Following the incident, the local police asked the Jamaican team to open a file, but this has still not been done."As of Friday, there had still been no statement from the Jamaican team or its captain.The intelligence services are nevertheless continuing their investigations," Bruce Davidson, head of World Cup media, told BBC Sport Africa.
Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, Lieutenant-General Tebello Mosikili, Chairman of the National Joint Operations and Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) was keen to reassure participants. "I can assure every participant taking part in the Netball World Cup, those in all hotels and venues, we will do everything in our power to ensure their safety. If there is a problem, they are encouraged to report it as soon as possible." Natjoints is responsible for safety and security at all major sporting, cultural and recreational events in South Africa. "We have dedicated investigators in the city. We are waiting for the complainants to come forward," added Mosikili.
Tournament director Priscilla Masisi also insisted that safety was taken very seriously during the 10-day competition. "There's a (daily) team leaders' meeting, which takes place in the hotels.So if there's a problem, it's brought to our attention," she said. Meanwhile, the competition continues. And Jamaica is one of the favourites for this Netball World Cup.
