NRL Shock: Brandon Smith Stopped by Police at Airport Ahead of Milestone Match
South Sydney Rabbitohs’ high-profile recruit Brandon Smith found himself at the centre of an off-field incident over the weekend, prompting the NRL Integrity Unit to seek clarification from the club.
Smith, who joined the Rabbitohs this season, flew with his teammates to the Gold Coast on Saturday afternoon ahead of their Round 23 clash with the Titans. However, upon landing at Coolangatta Airport, he was approached by Queensland Police and briefly questioned.
A statement released by Queensland Police on Sunday confirmed the encounter: “Queensland Police had cause to speak to a 29-year-old male at Coolangatta Airport. The male was later released without charge. Police have no further information to provide.”
The nature of the conversation remains unclear, with no formal charges laid. Despite the unusual episode, Smith has been cleared to play and is expected to line up for the Rabbitohs in what will be his milestone 150th NRL appearance.
The incident has nevertheless caught the attention of the NRL Integrity Unit, which has contacted South Sydney for further details. Rabbitohs CEO Blake Solly declined to comment publicly, maintaining the club’s silence until more facts are known.
Smith’s agent, Stan Martin, based in New Zealand, has not yet responded to media inquiries.
While the matter appears to have been resolved without legal consequence, the involvement of the Integrity Unit suggests the league is treating the situation seriously, as it continues to uphold strict standards around player conduct and transparency. The Rabbitohs, meanwhile, will aim to keep their focus on the field as they fight for a crucial late-season victory.
