New Zealand police investigating abuse and death threats against Rugby World Cup officials

New Zealand police are investigating allegations of death threats against referees involved in last year’s Rugby World Cup in France.

Inspector Stuart Mills, acting head of the National Criminal Investigation Group, confirmed on Friday that World Rugby had received three complaints about death threats against referees and match officials, allegedly from New Zealand.

Police are investigating him on suspicion of breaching New Zealand’s Harmful Digital Communications Act and making death threats.

A World Rugby report said 21 verified social media accounts originating from New Zealand sent threats and abuse against match officials and players involved in the World Cup. World Rugby said forensic research analysts were working with police and enforcement authorities in Australia, South Africa, France, New Zealand and the United Kingdom to prosecute those responsible.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian man has already been charged and is expected to appear in court in the coming days.

World Rugby said eight match officials and 49 players suffered online abuse during or after the World Cup.

England referee Wayne Barnes, who won the World Cup final between South Africa and New Zealand on October 28th, with South Africa winning 12-11, retired after the tournament after making threats and verbal abuse towards himself and his wife. did.

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