British Airways flight attendant ‘is raped during a stopover in Barbados’
During a stopover in Barbados, a flight attendant was allegedly raped at her hotel room.
According to the report, the stewardess was drinking with her colleagues on the Caribbean island at the time that a man she knew joined their group.
Barbados Police stated that it is believed that she invited the man back to her bedroom, where he then raped her.
The police say that they are “actively investigating” these allegations and that they are hunting down the suspect who is still at large.
British Airways confirmed the “horrible” incident had taken place and told The Mirror it is assisting the authorities in their investigation.
Barbados Police stated that the victim and the rapist were known to one another and that they believe he’s a British ex-pat living in Barbados.
“This is an active investigation after an allegation of rape was made by a member of the British Airways crew,” said Assistant Commissioner Jefferson Clark.
“We know the identity of the man and where he lives, but he is not home. It is a small island, and we will locate him. He is a Caucasian so most likely an ex-pat.”
Later, cops said a suspect was being questioned.
The stewardess has been asked to remain on the island while the investigation is carried out.
Describing the events in more detail, Mr. Clark said the BA team had been at a karaoke bar, drinking together, when they were joined by the suspect.
In her statement, she said she asked the man to come back to her hotel but that what took place was not consensual.
Mr. Clark added that they’re treating the allegations “very seriously”, admitting that they’re actively “pursuing an arrest”.
A BA source echoed the statement, saying the group had been enjoying a night at a karaoke bar before returning to their rooms.
The victim was comforted by her colleagues at a luxury hotel on the island, where police are also on-site, taking additional statements from four other crew members.
British officials were present at the Bridgetown Police Station, offering consular support.
BA advises its staff to avoid sharing rooms with other people during overnight stopovers.
In a statement shared with The Mirror, a BA spokesman said: “This is a police matter and we’re supporting our colleagues at this time.’