Rugby League Star Flees UK After Shocking Sex Charges
Keven Appo, 25, once a rising star at Bradford Bulls, has bolted to Papua New Guinea after facing serious criminal charges in the UK. The rugby forward is accused of rape, sexual assault, and two assaults. He jumped bail just hours after being granted conditional release.
Quick Exit From UK Sparks Extradition Hunt
Appo was let out on bail at 4pm on November 26 but was on a plane from Manchester Airport by 8.40pm the same day. His journey took him through Dubai before landing in his homeland, PNG.
Bradford Magistrates’ Court heard from prosecutor Fiona Newcombe that Appo skipped a scheduled hearing Monday morning and handed his house and car keys to his rugby club manager before vanishing—clearly planning to stay away.
UK authorities are now locked in a tense extradition battle, working with Papua New Guinea officials to get Appo back to face justice. Legal experts warn the process could drag on, depending on how cooperative PNG proves.
Bradford Bulls Cut Ties Amid Controversy
Following the charges, Bradford Bulls swiftly cancelled Appo’s contract. The club made no effort to mask their disappointment, confirming they had “cancelled Keven Appo’s playing contract” amid the serious allegations.
International Player’s Career in Tatters
- Appo is no stranger to big stages, having represented Papua New Guinea at the 2022 Rugby League World Cup in England.
- He joined Bradford Bulls in 2023 as a forward and had a two-year contract extension signed last August.
His sudden bid to flee the country has sparked debate about the effectiveness of bail safeguards, with critics questioning how such a high-risk suspect was allowed to leave the UK so quickly.
Keep it locked for updates as the extradition fight unfolds and more details emerge about this stunning case.
