Online Reporter
Yeukai Karengezeka-Chisepo
Court Correspondent
THE man, who is being accused of brandishing a gun during a schools’ rugby showdown in Harare on Saturday, is a Bulawayo businessman who, among other ventures, has run the Matopos Sailing Club.
Lotshe Yuri Rodgers Mangena, 50, the man at the centre of the storm, is the son of national hero Alfred Nikita Mangena.
He appeared at the Harare Magistrate Court facing charges of brandishing a firearm and assaulting a teenage schoolboy.
The incident happened during a stormy schools’ rugby battle between hosts Eagles Eaglesvale College and visiting Christian Brothers College of Bulawayo. Mangena appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo.
He was granted US$100 bail.
Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu alleged that on Saturday, at around 4:30pm, Mangena was among the spectators watching the rugby match in Willowvale, Harare.
The court heard that tensions flared towards the end of the match after Eaglesvale were awarded a penalty, which they successfully converted to win the game. It is alleged that the decision angered Mangena, and other CBC supporters, who stormed onto the field in protest, allegedly intending to confront the referee.
During the chaos, Mangena allegedly pulled out a pistol from his trousers and displayed it to the crowd.
The State further alleges that he went on to assault a 16-year-old Form 4 pupil, striking him once on the face.
The teenager, according to reports, did not sustain visible injuries and was said to be in a stable condition.
Police are continuing with investigations and have revealed that they have also seized Mangena’s firearm.
“Reference is made to our message on X platform regarding a firearm incident and Assault case which occurred at Eaglesvale College, Harare on 13/06/2026 during a rugby match between Christian Brothers College (CBC) and Eaglesvale College.
“The ZRP confirms the arrest of Lotshe Yuri Rodgers Mangena (50) for assault and pointing a firearm.
“The suspect has since appeared before Harare Magistrate Court. Meanwhile, the ZRP has since seized the firearm from the suspect.”
The incident has also drawn the attention of the Sports Commission.
“The Sports and Recreation Commission (SRC) notes with concern reports of an incident that occurred during a schools’ rugby fixture between Eaglesvale College and Christian Brothers College (CBC) at Eaglesvale College in Harare on 13 June 2026.
“The SRC further notes the statement issued by the Zimbabwe Republic Police confirming that investigations are underway in connection with a firearm-related incident and an assault case arising from events at the match.
“As the national regulator of sport in Zimbabwe, the SRC firmly upholds the values of sportsmanship, respect, discipline, fair play and the safety and well-being of all participants, officials and spectators.
“Sporting venues, particularly those involving children and young people, must remain safe environments where competition is conducted in a spirit of mutual respect and where the welfare of the young athletes is paramount.”
The SRC added:
“The Commission urges all stakeholders, including parents, guardians, supporters, schools, administrators and members of the public, to remain calm and allow the Zimbabwe Republic Police to complete its investigations without interference or speculation.
“We further encourage responsible conduct both on and off the field of play and caution against the spread of unverified information that may prejudice ongoing investigations.
“The SRC stands ready to engage with the relevant sporting and educational authorities.
“The Commission will continue to support efforts aimed at preserving the integrity, safety and positive values of school sport in Zimbabwe.”
