Former Premier League star, 24, arrested over rape of woman at top West End hotel
A FORMER Premier League and international football star has been arrested on suspicion of raping a young woman at a top West End hotel.
The 24–year-old was held by cops at the exclusive Corinthia Hotel in Whitehall Place, Westminster.
The young female complainant raised the alarm at the front desk of the five-star hotel early on Wednesday morning.
She had gone back to the hotel with the player after earlier meeting him in a Central London bar, said a source.
The woman alleged she was then attacked and raped by the footballer, who cannot be named for legal reasons.
Police arrested him at the hotel over the alleged date rape just before 10am that morning and he was taken to Charing Cross police station and questioned throughout the day in the presence of a lawyer.
A DNA swab, mugshot and fingerprints were taken from the suspect, as is routine for anyone arrested.
The player was later released on bail until a date in mid-December pending further police inquiries. It is understood he denies rape.
Police have carried out a forensic examination of the player’s £750 a night room as part of their inquiries and are also analysing CCTV footage from the hotel.
The complainant – believed to be in her 20s – was taken to a Haven rape counselling suite to be examined and has provided a statement to specialist police officers.
A source said: “She met the player in a bar and agreed to go back to his hotel, where he had booked into earlier.
“She claims he then attacked and raped her.
“The woman went to the front desk at the hotel and was said to have been very distressed.
“Police were called and officers arrived and arrested him at the hotel. He was then led out to the amazement of guests and staff.”
The player was born abroad and has played for several English clubs as well representing his own country at youth and senior levels.
The source said: “He has played in the Premier League and people will recognise him.
“The allegations against him are very serious.”
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: “A 24-year old man was arrested at 09.53hrs on Wednesday, 9 October at an address on Whitehall Place, SW1A, following an allegation of rape.
“He has been bailed until a date in mid-December.
“A woman is being supported by specially trained officers.
“The investigation is ongoing and enquiries are still being made.”
Anyone with information is asked to call 101 or ‘X’ @MetCC and quote Connect ref: 01/938365/24.
Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.