Thomas Partey Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault in the UK

Thomas Partey, the Ghanaian international and Arsenal midfielder, has been charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault by the Metropolitan Police Service. In a statement released on Friday, the police confirmed that the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) had authorised the charges following the submission of a file of evidence by detectives.

According to the statement, Partey, 32, of Hertfordshire, has been charged with five counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. The alleged offences are said to have occurred between 2021 and 2022. The charges were issued through a charge and requisition, which requires him to appear before a magistrates’ court in the United Kingdom. A date for his first court appearance is expected to be announced soon.

As of the time of reporting, neither Partey nor his legal representatives have issued a statement regarding the charges. Arsenal Football Club has also not released an official comment, although it is understood that the club is aware of the development and is monitoring the situation.

Partey, who joined Arsenal from Atlético Madrid in 2020 in a £45 million transfer, has been a regular figure in the club’s midfield under manager Mikel Arteta. He has also been an important player for the Ghana national team, playing in major international tournaments including the Africa Cup of Nations and the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The Metropolitan Police reiterated that all allegations of this nature are taken seriously and investigated thoroughly in accordance with due process. Under UK law, the identity of complainants in sexual offence cases remains protected, and no further details about the alleged victims have been disclosed.

The news has generated significant reaction across the football community and on social media, with many calling for due process to be respected while others have expressed concern about the seriousness of the allegations. Legal analysts suggest that, if convicted, the charges could carry substantial prison sentences.

Thomas Partey remains presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The legal process is now underway, and more details are expected to emerge in the coming days.