Lotshe Yuri Rodgers Mangena, the son of late national hero and ZIPRA commander Alfred Nikita Mangena, has been permanently barred from entering Lilfordia School after allegedly brandishing a firearm and assaulting a pupil during a school rugby match at Eaglesvale College last weekend.
Mangena (50) appeared before Harare Magistrate Ruth Moyo on Wednesday facing charges of assault and pointing a firearm.
He was released on US$100 bail and remanded to a later date.
Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu told the court that the incident occurred on June 13 during a rugby fixture between Eaglesvale College and Christian Brothers College (CBC).
The State alleges that tensions flared after Eaglesvale secured a 14-13 victory through a late penalty kick. Following the final whistle, a group of disgruntled supporters entered the field to confront the referee.
Mangena, whose son plays for CBC, allegedly produced a pistol during the confrontation and struck a 16-year-old Eaglesvale pupil in the face.
Videos of the incident circulated widely on social media, prompting police intervention.
Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed Mangena’s arrest and said the firearm had been seized.
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The court heard that the pupil did not sustain visible injuries.
The incident has also triggered disciplinary action at Lilfordia School, where Mangena is a registered parent.
In a letter dated June 17, Headmaster Donald Campbell informed Mangena that he had been permanently barred from entering school premises or attending school-related events.
The school said the decision was taken in line with safeguarding policies and the Association of Trust Schools code of conduct.
Under the directive, Mangena is prohibited from accessing any part of the campus and may not collect or drop off his child at the school. The school also warned that any breach of the ban could affect the continued enrolment of his child.
The Sports and Recreation Commission condemned the incident, with director-general Allen Mavunga urging parents and supporters to exercise restraint and help ensure school sporting events remain safe environments for children.
The matter is pending before the courts.
