New Delhi: Olympic team officials are on red alert after the alleged sexual assault of an Australian woman in Paris just days before the 2024 Olympics begin.
French police are investigating a rape charge after a tourist alleged that she was sexually assaulted by five men, according to local media.
According to the reports, the woman aged in her 20s informed the local police she had been raped by several men last week.
A statement from a source at the French interior ministry said: “An investigation has been opened and we have CCTV camera footage and DNA that should allow us to very quickly establish what happened and arrest those responsible.”
Australian consulate and French police are supporting the victim.
The Australian chef de mission, Anna Meares, said that they have been advised to stay alert when going outside the athletes’ village.
“I have been informed, it sounds horrific. Obviously our hearts go out to the woman involved and we hope she’s being cared for and supported in the trauma she’s experienced,” Meares said.
Paris rocked ahead of Olympics
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said that they are enquiring about the incident to get more details.
The alleged attack happened early on Saturday on Boulevard de Clichy and the accused are believed to be African migrant men. The shocking incident has sent shockwaves across the world with questions being raised over the security and safety of the tourists, officials and athletes in Paris ahead of the biggest sporting event in the world.
The number of tourists in the city has swelled ahead of the 33rd edition of the Summer Olympics, which officially kicks off with a one-of-a-kind opening ceremony on Friday.
Australia will field over 450 athletes in 329 medal events across 42 sports disciplines at the Paris Olympic Games.
Australia have a rich history at the Olympics and is one of the most successful nations at the Summer Games with 552 medals including 163 golf, 178 silver and 211 bronze.
The Australian chef de mission, Anna Meares, said that they have been advised to stay alert when going outside the athletes’ village. Sports Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
