A rugby sevens star has been accused of the rape of an up-and-coming singer in his native Kenya.
According to local media reports, World Series Sevens regular Frank Wanyama and Alex Olaba, who is also a rugby player, have been arrested and charged with the alleged gang rape of singer Wendy Kemunto.
Both players have been charged with raping the singer at an apartment complex in the Kenyan capital of Nairobi following a birthday party in February.
They deny the charge and insist any sexual activity was consensual.
Kemunto, who first aired her accusations on Instagram, says she is pregnant following the alleged assault.
She earlier detailed her harrowing experience, claiming she “slipped in and out of consciousness” after being drugged.
She was unable to fight off the players and didn’t report the alleged rape to authorities until much later because of “the profile of one of these rugby players [Wanyama].”
Wanyama, who plays for the Kenya Harlequins, has been suspended by his club pending investigations by local police.
Earlier in the month, the Kenyan Rugby Union released a statement on the allegations.
“The Kenya Rugby Union (KRU) has been made aware of reports about alleged sexual misconduct involving a contracted Kenya Sevens player.
“The matter will be reviewed as soon as practicable by the KRU, in line with existing procedures for all contracted players,” the statement said.
“It is also important to note that with a report having been made to law enforcement authorities, the KRU cannot comment further about the allegations pending the outcome of investigations.
“KRU wishes to state that it does not condone sexual harassment or any other activity that goes against the spirit of World Rugby Regulation 20 and remains committed to continued respect, empowerment and increased participation of women in all aspects of the sport of rugby.”
Standard Media reported Wanyama and Olaba appeared in the Milimani Magistrate Court on Tuesday (NZT).
They were released on bail of 500,000 shillings ($7000).
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