Arabic version: اعتقال رجل بعد إساءة عنصرية بحق جونيور نسيمبا لاعب ويغان
Police have arrested a man after Wigan Warriors forward Junior Nsemba was subjected to racist abuse on social media following Wigan’s 16-14 victory over St Helens at Super League’s Magic Weekend. The comments targeted the 22-year-old England international and appeared after last Sunday’s game at Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.
According to BBC News, Wigan reported the abuse to the Rugby Football League and the police. The report states a 56-year-old man from St Helens was arrested on Friday on suspicion of a racially aggravated malicious communication offence.
In a statement, Greater Manchester Police said they were able to identify the man with the support of both clubs and added: “He currently remains in custody awaiting interview.” The incident followed a dramatic match in which Wigan edged past their long-time rivals by two points. St Helens scrum-half Jackson Hastings missed a kick that would have tied the game after the final hooter had sounded.
Wigan said they were “appalled” by the comments and “condemn them in the strongest possible terms.” The club added: “No individual should be subjected to racist abuse, whether online, in person or in any other setting.” It also stated: “Racism must be called out, condemned and eradicated.” Wigan head coach Matt Peet said: “We need to take care of this and make sure it just doesn’t get brushed under the carpet, which I’m sure it won’t.”
An image caption accompanying the original report noted that Junior Nsemba made his Super League debut for Wigan in 2022. Greater Manchester Police said they identified the suspect with the support of both clubs, and that the man currently remains in custody awaiting interview.
