A man accused of racially abusing former England rugby union international Ugo Monye has been acquitted of a public order offence. Angus Beukes, a 32-year-old mechanic from South Africa, allegedly used a racial slur towards Monye after a Gallagher Premiership match between Exeter Chiefs and Gloucester on November 19, 2023. The incident took place at Exeter’s Sandy Park Stadium, where Monye was commentating at the time. Beukes denied the charge of causing racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress, claiming that the word he used is acceptable in his home country and he was unaware of its offensiveness in the UK.
During the trial at Exeter Magistrates’ Court, Monye described hearing Beukes repeatedly using the racial slur, which left him “extremely shocked.” Beukes, representing himself via video link from South Africa, stated that he was speaking to a South African female friend at the time and the word was used in a non-offensive manner. Magistrates found Beukes not guilty of the charge, highlighting the prosecution’s failure to prove that he knew the term was offensive in the UK. Presiding justice Paul Doyle emphasized the importance of proving intent and awareness of offensiveness.
Witness statements, including Monye’s account, detailed how Beukes shouted the racial slur as crowds were leaving the stadium. Monye expressed his shock at the incident and confronted Beukes, expecting an apology, but none was forthcoming. Beukes claimed that the word had no significant meaning in South Africa and was commonly used among friends. The Chiefs apologized to Monye, and the incident was investigated by Devon and Cornwall Police. The Rugby Football Union condemned the incident and offered support to Monye.
The court’s decision rested on whether Beukes was aware of the term’s offensiveness in the UK during his brief stay there. Despite witnesses corroborating the use of the racial slur, the prosecution failed to establish Beukes’ knowledge and intent beyond a reasonable doubt. Beukes maintained that the word was part of casual conversation with his friend and had no malicious intent. The court’s verdict hinged on the cultural differences in the interpretation of the term and Beukes’ understanding of its impact in the UK.
Monye’s reaction to the incident underscored the sensitivity and gravity of racial language, especially in a public setting. The case highlighted the complexities of cross-cultural communication and the need for awareness and sensitivity towards diverse cultural norms. The acquittal of Beukes raised questions about the interpretation of language and intent in a multicultural society. The incident served as a reminder of the importance of education and dialogue in addressing racial insensitivity and promoting respect and understanding among communities.
In response to the verdict, Monye expressed disappointment but hoped that the incident would spark conversations about racial awareness and cultural sensitivity. He emphasized the need for continued efforts to combat racial discrimination and promote inclusivity in all aspects of society. The case prompted reflection on the impact of language and the significance of context in determining the offensiveness of certain words. It underscored the ongoing challenges in navigating cultural differences and promoting mutual respect and understanding in an increasingly diverse society.