An Ireland rugby fan was allegedly gang-raped by three men while in France to watch her team at the Rugby World Cup.
According to French media reports, police are seeking men accused of raping a 37-year-old woman on Sunday night in Bordeaux city centre.
The alleged victim is said to have been walking back to her accommodation near Rue de la Rousselle when she was attacked.
She was then allegedly able to make her way back to her accommodation with the help of passing Welsh rugby supporters, but was in a state of shock and was unable to initially report the incident to police.
According to Le Parisien, a criminal investigation has been opened, with police seeking three Caucasian men.
“The investigations are underway and in particular the genetic examinations on the victim and the clothing, the collection of testimonies and the study of the video protection of the neighbourhood,” the local prosecutor’s office said in a statement.
The woman was said to have been treated at Bordeaux University Hospital and to have been interviewed by Irish police officers assisting the local force as part of the World Cup security operation.
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) said in a statement that it was “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.”
The Gardai said the investigation was a matter for French police.
