Gaza province investigates athlete age falsification

The Gaza provincial government has launched an investigation into the falsification of athlete ages during the 2026 School Sports Games held in Inhambane. The National Criminal Investigation Service (SERNIC) is leading the inquiry to determine the involvement of civil identification officials, teachers, parents, and staff from the Provincial Directorate of Youth and Sports.

Gaza was responsible for eight of the 31 age-tampering cases detected nationwide. These irregularities led to the disqualification of several athletes, causing the province to drop from its status as the 2024 defending champion to ninth place in the overall standings. Governor Alfeu Cuna stated that once the investigation is complete, exemplary punitive measures will be taken against those responsible.

Despite the controversy, the Gaza delegation achieved notable success in specific disciplines, including first place in women’s volleyball and third place in men’s handball. In total, the province secured six gold, five silver, and five bronze medals in individual events.