New Zealand media have been reporting over the weekend that Dunedin Police are investigating an alleged sexual assault case involving one of the touring Lions players.

The incident allegedly happened hours after the Lions’ historic victory over the Highlanders in Dunedin, and reportedly involves an 18 year old university student.

When approached by New Zealand media the Lions’ coach, John Mitchell, was reported to be unaware of the incident.

No players have thus far been named by Dunedin police who are continuing investigations.

Lions Rugby President Mr Kevin de Klerk has released the following media statement within the last hour:

Date: 30 May 2011

Time: 13:30 (South African time)

Issue at hand: New Zealand (Dunedin) Police investigate rugby player for alleged assault

Holding statement

Lions Rugby confirms that we have just heard about the story in the last couple of hours from the media. No direct contact from any authorities from New Zealand has been received.

Lions Rugby takes this matter incredibly seriously. We ask the media to be sensitive when reporting on this situation that has not been confirmed as this could seriously harm people’s reputations and careers.

We will work closely with the Lions rugby team management to investigate the situation and should the authorities make contact with us on the matter, we will assist in any way.

Lions Rugby commits to keeping all stakeholders updated.

In a new twist in this case, the NZ website, stuff.co.nz that originally broke the news have this morning reported thus:

“Dunedin police are saying little about their investigation into an alleged sexual assault on a female university student, reportedly by a visiting rugby player over the weekend.

Detective Senior Sergeant Kallum Croudis said an update may be released tomorrow but otherwise would not comment on police investigations.

An 18-year-old female student complained she was sexually assaulted in the city early on Sunday morning.

South African Super 15 rugby team the Lions said none of its players were being investigated over the alleged sexual assault.

Western Force chief executive Vern Reid today said the Australian team had no involvement in the alleged incident.

“The team has not been contacted by local authorities and following our own internal enquiries, we are completely satisfied that no member of the club’s touring squad was involved.

“Any suggestion a player from the Western Force was involved is totally inaccurate.””

(End of Statement)