England rugby international Billy Vunipola, 31, has been apprehended in Majorca on charges of involvement in a violent altercation at a local pub. According to reports from local authorities, Vunipola, who hails from Australia with Tongan heritage, allegedly engaged in a disruptive episode at a bar in Palma, leading law enforcement to utilize a Taser device to subdue him.
The 6ft 2in sportsman, known for his role as a rugby-union fly-half at Saracens in Premiership Rugby, purportedly removed his shirt and menaced patrons and staff with objects such as bottles and chairs. Despite being subjected to a Taser discharge, Vunipola reportedly remained unfazed, necessitating a second Taser shock to bring him under control and restrain him. Subsequently, Vunipola was transported to a local medical facility, where he had to be sedated and secured to his bed.
Following his hospital stay, Vunipola was presented before a court and subsequently granted bail while an ongoing inquiry is conducted. The pub where the incident occurred was shuttered early the next morning, and official statements from law enforcement and judicial authorities have not been released.
Having spent his early years in the UK after relocating with his family from Australia, Vunipola earned a scholarship to attend Harrow School and secured a spot with Saracens after debuting with the Wasps Academy at the age of 18. Making his first appearance for England in 2013, Vunipola has since acquired close to 80 international caps. Notably, his father and uncle previously represented Tonga, while his cousin, Taupe Faletau, has earned caps with Wales and the British and Irish Lions.
The incident in Majorca has generated adverse attention towards the England rugby luminary, with the details of the occurrence sparking unease among supporters and the general public. As the investigation evolves, the potential ramifications on Vunipola’s professional career and public standing remain uncertain.