Kumuls star stood down from representative duties after alleged sexual assault in UK

Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League have dismissed PNG Kumuls and former Bradford Bulls star Keven Appo from taking part in any rugby league activities including representing the country.  

The decision to stand down Appo comes after his alleged involvement in serious criminal charges of sexual assault in the United Kingdom.

PNGRFL Chairman, Sandis Tsaka said PNGRFL has a zero tolerance for violence against women or any form of criminal misconduct and as per normal practice and precedence, Mr Appo will be stood down from any participation and representative duties in rugby league in PNG.

Reports from UK have emerged that the former SP Hunter was bound to appear in Yorkshire Magistrate Court yesterday but fled five hours after he was charged - the BBC reports.

Tsaka confirmed that PNGRFL is in contact with UK and PNG authorities in dealing with this matter.

“We strongly encourage Mr. Appo to work with the relevant authorities to address the matter and abide by the necessary legal processes,” the chairman said.

“Investigations of this nature are never a good look for any sport and as an organization, we strongly condemn such behaviour and disregard for the laws and processes of our own country and others in which our people are ambassadors for not just the country but our sport.”

The 25-year-old from Eastern Highlands was accused of rape, sexual assault and assault whilst playing for the Bulls in England’s second-tier Championship League.

However, his contract signed in 2024 which was extended for 2 years, was cancelled when West Yorkshire Police revealed investigations of the offences committed.

PNGRFL chief executive officer Stanley Hondina said the rugby league body in PNG was disappointed by the actions of the Kumuls forward on the international scale.

“The PNGRFL aspires to create avenues for our people to be better and it is disappointing to see such investigations, however, as Ambassadors, the onus is on people in our sport who are given opportunities overseas, to uphold the utmost respect for each other and the laws of these countries,” Hondina said.

“The inaction and actions of one player does not represent those of the many that are in our game and overseas.

“We belong to the international games and all rules of the game applies. We are working with the UKRL and whatever decisions are made will be upheld if policies are aligned and we ensure compliance.

“Based on that the PNGRFL will do whatever necessary to address this and protect the game and all stakeholders involved in our sport.”