Broncos’ Decision to Host War Crimes Accused Sparks Outrage

The National Rugby League’s sole Afghan player has voiced significant disappointment regarding the Brisbane Broncos’ decision to permit Ben Roberts-Smith access to their inner sanctum during a recent game. Omar Slaimankhel, who previously played five matches for the New Zealand Warriors, expressed his dismay upon learning of Roberts-Smith’s presence in the Broncos’ dressing rooms at Suncorp Stadium.

Slaimankhel’s parents were compelled to flee Afghanistan on foot due to ongoing conflict, seeking refuge in neighboring Pakistan. He was reportedly conducting business in China when the news of Roberts-Smith’s visit to the team’s private space emerged.

Allegations Against Roberts-Smith

Roberts-Smith, a former soldier, faces multiple charges related to alleged war crimes, including the purported murders of unarmed Afghan civilians and prisoners. These charges carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment for each offense. Roberts-Smith has consistently denied all allegations, stating, “I categorically deny all of these allegations.”

Sources familiar with the circumstances, who were not authorized to speak publicly, confirmed that Roberts-Smith attended the Broncos’ match against St. George Illawarra with his daughters. The invitation reportedly came from the partner of a club staff member, who had connections with the girls through school. These same sources indicated that Roberts-Smith is acquainted with Broncos welfare officer Adam Walsh, a former SAS soldier with whom he served internationally.

The NRL declined to comment on the impromptu visit, deferring the matter to the Broncos. The club itself also chose not to issue a statement.

Player’s Personal Perspective

Slaimankhel, reflecting on his family’s experiences, described the news of Roberts-Smith’s appearance as “deeply troubling.” He stated, “It’s deeply troubling that someone charged with war crimes continues to be given a platform in public spaces.”

He emphasized that his critique stemmed from a human perspective, rather than solely his Afghan heritage. “This isn’t about my Afghan background, I speak first as a human being,” Slaimankhel said. “This is yet another chapter in a decades-long pattern of dehumanising people from the Middle East, and quietly burying the crimes of imperialism. Their invitation to him says everything.”

Details of Allegations and Player’s Background

Specific accusations against Roberts-Smith include allegedly kicking an Afghan civilian off a cliff and instructing a subordinate to execute a man in September 2012. He is also alleged to have executed a prisoner with a prosthetic leg during a mission in Afghanistan in 2009.

Roberts-Smith’s legal case is scheduled for a brief administrative hearing on Thursday. Slaimankhel, 34, was born in Pakistan and relocated to New Zealand with his family at the age of two. He achieved recognition in the NRL’s under-20s competition, being named fullback in the 2011 Toyota Cup team of the year. He also had a stint in the Sydney Roosters’ lower grades.

In a separate notable achievement, Slaimankhel and his friend Oz Malik won the reality television show ‘The Block’ in 2023, securing a record profit of $1.69 million.