Nairobi Polo Club Speaks After Alleged Sexual Assault Incident Sparks Uproar

The Nairobi Polo Club on Tuesday, February 20 issued a statement after Kenyans dragged the famous establishment into controversy surrounding a woman who claimed that she was sexually assaulted whilst attending one of their events over the past weekend.

The woman took to her Instagram stories claiming she was assaulted by a male patron at the club's grounds during the event.

According to her, the man attempted to remove her undergarments. Meanwhile, the man whom the woman had filmed during the altercation appeared intoxicated when he was cornered by her and another woman, with his colleague appearing to de-escalate the situation.

"He said molestation is a choice...are you consenting to be recorded?" the woman posed as her colleague urged her to keep recording, saying "He is saying it proudly."

Two men stalking a woman at work. /FOTOSEARCH

"We have a sign and entrance that says this is 18 years and over. So once you enter into this space...no, you don't consent to be molested," the man responded as the women kept forcing him to admit he uttered the controversial statement.

"When you walk into this space, you drink alcohol, you're 18 years and over...you can take care of yourself as an adult," he added as he kept denying stating that one consented to be molested.

The altercation sparked uproar on social media platforms with the gravity of the woman's allegations prompting women to stand in solidarity with her.

Others seized the chance to come forward with their accounts of previous encounters with the man. Viral Tea could not independently substantiate the allegations.

In the statement seen by Viral Tea, Nairobi Polo Club affirmed its non-tolerance to any form of misconduct, though revealing that its security detail was not alerted of the incident.

"In response to the recent alleged assault incident at Nairobi Polo Club, we want to emphatically state that the club does not tolerate any form of misconduct by any party. The well-being and safety of our members and visitors are paramount.

"Our security teams were not notified of the incident - however, we have engaged the police and private security teams to address and investigate these allegations," read the statement in part.

Nonetheless, it assured its valued visitors that its primary aim was to create an inclusive and secure environment for everyone attending its events.

"Nairobi Polo Club remains committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct, and we will take appropriate action based on the findings of the ongoing investigation," the club promised.

Another statement was issued by a marketing agency which was also dragged into the allegations after Kenyan netizens accused one of its employees of engaging in behaviour that constitutes sexual harassment of a member of the public.

"We want to assure our employees, clients, the general public and our stakeholders that we are actively investigating this matter in accordance with our company policies and procedures. We are also inviting the relevant lawful agencies to expeditiously investigate the matter and accord the dispensation of justice to the parties involved," read the statement in part.

Founded in 1907 and based in the heart of Nairobi’s heaving metropolis, Nairobi Polo Club is the oldest polo club in East Africa located at Jamhuri Park grounds.

According to its official website, the premises boasts two full-size pitches used for polo tournaments and competitions as well as a well-appointed clubhouse which offers the ambience and venue for corporate hospitality and entertainment.

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and an illustrious list of both playing and social members, the Polo Club also hosts some of the most prestigious events in the playing and social calendar.

Club Facilities

1. Two full-size polo grounds
2. Stabling for 90 horses with additional stables available at Jamhuri show ground
3. Wooden horse/polo pit
4. Stick & ball area
5. Clubhouse with bar and lounge featuring an open fireplace
6. Terrace and grandstand overlooking both polo grounds and the Ngong Hills in the distance
7. Male and female change rooms with showers
8. Polo and riding training for beginners and intermediates and occasional polo clinics
9. Ample parking and space in exceptional proximity to the centre of Nairobi.

Nairobi Polo Club during a past event. /NAIROBI POLO CLUB