ZRU condemn shocking gun incident at Eaglesvale

The Zimbabwe Rugby Union Interim Management Committee (IMC) has strongly condemned an incident in which a parent allegedly assaulted a match official and brandished a firearm following a schools rugby match between Eaglesvale and Christian Brothers College (CBC) in Harare.

The incident reportedly occurred on June 13 after the final whistle of a closely contested match in which Eaglesvale secured victory with a last-minute penalty.

The matter is now under police investigation, with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirming that a case has been opened.

"The ZRP confirms that investigations are currently underway in connection with a firearm incident and assault case which occurred at Eaglesvale College, Harare, on June 13, 2026," police said in a statement.

"The incident took place during a rugby match between Christian Brothers College and Eaglesvale College. The ZRP urges calm among parents, students, administrators and stakeholders as police investigations continue."

In a statement issued yesterday, the Zimbabwe Rugby Union said it had been formally notified of the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting match officials and preserving the values of the sport.

"The Zimbabwe Rugby Union condemns any acts of violence in the strongest possible terms. Our match officials are the backbone of this sport, and any act of intimidation, abuse or violence against them is an attack on the integrity of rugby itself and will be treated accordingly," the union said.

The governing body reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on violence, intimidation and abuse directed at referees, players, coaches or spectators.

"This policy applies at every level of the game, from school fixtures to national competitions," the union said.

The ZRU indicated that its disciplinary structures will conduct their own review of the matter and consider sanctions against any individuals or institutions found responsible once investigations are complete.

"The conduct witnessed on 13 June 2026 is entirely unacceptable and contrary to the values of rugby: Respect, Discipline, Passion, Integrity and Solidarity," the statement said.

The union also moved to reassure referees that they would receive full support in cases involving abuse or violence.

"To every referee serving this game across Zimbabwe, you are valued. You are protected and you will not be abandoned," the ZRU said.

"The ZRU and the Zimbabwe Rugby Referees Society are united in ensuring that you can perform your duties in a safe environment."

The union urged match officials to report any incidents of abuse or assault immediately through their provincial referees' societies, promising support through disciplinary proceedings, legal processes and other interventions.

The incident has sparked concern within rugby circles, particularly given the involvement of schools and young athletes. The ZRU used the opportunity to remind players, parents and supporters that respect for match officials is a fundamental principle of the sport.

"To every rugby player in Zimbabwe at school, club and national level, rugby is built on respect. Respect for your teammates, opponents and, above all, the officials who give their time so that you can play," the union said.

It added that disputing decisions, confronting referees or encouraging spectator misconduct undermines the spirit of the game and could result in disciplinary action.

The ZRU concluded by calling on all stakeholders to uphold rugby's core values and help ensure that the sport remains safe and welcoming for everyone involved.

The outcome of both the police investigation and the rugby union's disciplinary process is now being awaited.