England and British and Irish Lions rugby star Billy Vunipola has reportedly been arrested in Mallorca following an alleged violent altercation at a bar. The 31-year-old Saracens forward was tasered by Spanish police before being taken into custody.
According to local reports, the incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning at a popular bar in Palma. Witnesses claim Vunipola became aggressive after being refused service, leading to a confrontation with staff and customers.
Police Intervention and Arrest
Officers from the National Police were called to the scene and reportedly used a taser to subdue the 6'2", 126kg forward before arresting him. Vunipola is said to have resisted arrest before being taken to a nearby police station.
A police spokesperson confirmed: "A foreign man was arrested last night in Palma's centre after causing altercations in an establishment. The individual showed resistance during the arrest, requiring officers to use their electric pulse device."
Court Appearance Looms
The rugby international is expected to appear before a judge later today. Under Spanish law, he could face charges including public disorder and resisting arrest.
Vunipola, who has 75 England caps and toured with the British and Irish Lions in 2017 and 2021, was reportedly on holiday with friends when the incident occurred. His club Saracens and the Rugby Football Union are yet to comment on the situation.
Career Implications
This incident comes at a sensitive time for the player, who recently announced he would be leaving Saracens at the end of the season to join French club Montpellier. Any legal consequences could potentially affect his impending move and future international prospects.
The rugby world will be watching closely as more details emerge about this unexpected development involving one of the sport's most formidable forwards.
