Reports: Unnamed member of Indian cricket contingent accused of rape in Zimbabwe?

A member of India’s travelling contingent to Zimbabwe has been arrested for allegedly raping a local woman on Friday. Harare Assistant Police Commisioner Charity Charamba confirmed an Indian national’s involvement in the matter, stating that members of the country’s state board are attempting to solve the issue. The incident occurred at Meikles hotel in Central Harare, where the team is staying to complete its remaining T20 fixtures.

According to sources from the hotel, the victim was hanging around in the hotel lobby before being drugged and allegedly abused. Charity said, “The victim has pointed to an Indian national from the batch that came in last week, at this point I’m not in the position to reveal whether it’s a player or official as I’m bound by law. But what I can confirm is that the accused appeared in court on Saturday.”

She added, “We have concluded our investigation, but both the police and courts have to handle the issue with care as it can lead to a potential diplomatic feud.”

Upon contacting the hotel, the staff asked Sportskeeda to redirect questions to the Indian ambassador in Zimbabwe.

There is no evidence indicating that the alleged perpetrator is from India’s playing squad, as all 16 members were present on the field during India’s two-run loss to Zimbabwe. Upon calling the hotel, we also learned that India’s Zimbabwe ambassador was trying to pacify the situation.

A source close to the developments said, “The girl claims to have been drugged, then waking up to bloodied undergarments in one of the member’s rooms. She also said that she had no clue how she reached the room.”

The source added, “Certain senior officials from India were seen in the hotel, attempting to pacify the situation. They spoke to the woman, and several of the city’s law makers.”

There is no confirmation from Harare Police about an Indian team member’s involvement. However, they have confirmed that it is an Indian national from the hotel. According to the hotel staff, there have been no Indian national check-ins apart from the touring squad in the past week.

The incident has also been reported in Zimbabwe.