Tahiti police gather evidence after pro surfer suspended over alleged incident
Police in French Polynesia are gathering evidence following an alleged incident in Tahiti that has led world surf bodies to suspend a professional surfer from competitions.
Tahiti police are collecting evidence in connection with allegations that have prompted the suspension of a professional surfer by world surfing organizations. The incident reportedly involved a teenage Australian female surfer and at least three men. Tahiti law enforcement officials reportedly do not have jurisdiction, as the alleged victim initially reported the complaint to Australian police.
Both the International Surfing Association (ISA) and World Surf League (WSL) announced the suspension of a male competitor following the serious allegations. The WSL stated the alleged incident occurred at a private gathering in Tahiti in August, not affiliated with the organization. Surfing World magazine reported the party took place after the final day of the Outerknown Tahiti Pro surfing event.
Australian and French Polynesian police have conflicting views on jurisdiction, with Tahitian officials believing they have no authority due to the initial complaint to Australian authorities. Local Tahitian police are gathering evidence to prepare for Australian law enforcement, though they have not yet received a formal request for information.
NSW Police declined to comment, stating that French Polynesian police handle the investigation. The ISA provisionally suspended the surfer from ISA-sanctioned events pending further investigation, emphasizing the organization's commitment to athlete safety and a harassment-free environment.
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