World Cup chiefs stick the knife in stab vest company

FIFA World Cup organisers have condemned a company urging football fans to buy stab vests before arriving in South Africa, claiming the move is a “money-making ploy” that will taint the major 32-nation event.

In recent days, online firm, Protektorvest, has launched a global internet and social networking website campaign advertising its protective clothing to fans planning to travel this summer.

As part of the campaign, supporters can emblazon national flags or slogans such as “free hugs” or “Olé” on their stab vests, provided they pay the London-based company €48 per item.

Protektorvest, which is planning to open offices near Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg during the tournament, has insisted the clothing is a vital part of a safe World Cup in a country where there are an average of 50 murders a day.

However, world football authorities have condemned the stab vest product as “a money ploy,” causing “unnecessary fear” among visiting tourists and supporters who will be vital to the World Cup-linked economy.

“These people are out of order. We’ve never heard of such measures being taken before and there surely is no need for it now,” a spokesman for the South African football association warned.

Senior superintendent for World Cup security Vishnu Naidoov added that the situation was “ridiculous”.

“We’re a free country and people can wear what they like, but if they wear one of these vests, they’ll look like clowns,” he said.

However, despite the national police confirming they will increase security for the duration of the tournament, concerns have been raised in recent months over the safety of visiting fans this summer.