AN IRISH rugby fan who was kidnapped and raped in a horror attack was discovered by Welsh supporters in a distressed state.
The 37-year-old, who was in France for the Rugby World Cup, has been treated at Bordeaux‘s University hospital as the hunt for her rapists continues.
PAThe woman reported the attack to police after she was discovered by Welsh fans[/caption]
The horror attack happened around midnight Saturday on Rue de la Rousselle in central Bordeaux, near where the woman was staying.
After allegedly riding with the men in a car, the Irish woman said she was dragged into an alleyway and gang raped.
Following the horror attack, a group of Welsh fans stumbled upon the shocked woman.
French police told le Parisien: “The investigations are under way 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 woman was initially unable to report her ordeal to the police, but later approached the authorities.
French police called for backup from Irish officers who were in town to assist as the world cup continues in France.
The three suspects are Caucasian, with one described as “very athletic”.
A spokesperson for the Irish Rugby Football Union said: “The IRFU is 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 in a statement that members of the An Garda Síochána were deployed in France for the world cup and are lisasing with local authorities in relation to the incident.
They said: “The investigation is a matter for French police. An Garda Síochána has no further comment at this time.”
French police are going through CCTV to find the perpetrators – it is unknown what nationality they are.
Irish and English pubs in Bordeaux spoke to the Irish Independent and said they were shocked over the crime.