Irish fan allegedly abducted and gang-raped after Rugby World Cup match
A general view of the pitch ahead of the captain's run at the Stade de Bordeaux.
An Irish rugby fan was allegedly abducted and gang-raped by three men in Bordeaux following the Rugby World Cup match between Ireland and Romania, according to reports.
The 37-year-old woman, who has not been named, was allegedly attacked on Saturday on Rue de la Rousselle in the city centre close to where she was staying.
Local police have launched an investigation into the incident and are continuing their manhunt after the fan was found in a distressed state in the street by Welsh supporters. She was rushed to the Bordeaux University Hospital.
Dragged into alleyway then driven away
Le Parisien reported that “three individuals seized her and dragged her into an alleyway.” She was then driven by car to Rue du Puits Descazaux which is not far away, where she was allegedly raped.
The report adds that residents alerted the police, but the suspects had enough time to get away.
Multiple reports confirm that a group of Welsh supporters found her in a distressed state on the streets.
In a state of shock, the woman was initially unable to report the attack to French police upon her return to her accommodation.
Prosecutors have opened an investigation into the alleged rape, and police are said to be seeking three men.
The Irish Independent has since reported that forensic tests and footage captured by CCTV cameras in the area are now being studied in order to find the alleged attackers.
Garda Síochána (National police service of Ireland), who are in the city as reinforcements for the World Cup, are assisting local authorities with the investigation.
“Members of An Garda Síochána currently deployed in France for the duration of the Rugby World Cup tournament to assist Irish people visiting France are liaising with local authorities in relation to an alleged incident. The investigation is a matter for French police,” a Garda spokesperson said.
IRFU is aware of the disturbing news
A spokesperson for the Irish Rugby Football Union told the Independent: “The IRFU is aware of the disturbing news emanating from Bordeaux regarding an incident involving an Irish supporter at the weekend.
“We are shocked and extend our deepest sympathies to the victim.
“The IRFU wants all fans to have a positive experience supporting the team in France and we urge all travellers to take care and look out for each other.”
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