Catholic Priest Held In Ivory Coast Over Rape Allegation

A Catholic priest is in custody after being charged with rape in Ivory Coast.

Father Anderson Sylvain Kouame Abe has been suspended from his role until further notice, a spokesman told a press conference at Abidjan’s Saint Paul’s cathedral.

The spokesman said the priest, serving in the Diocese of Abidjan, was arrested on 13 April in relation, to ”the rape of a young girl”.

Her age, name and details of the attack were not given.

The announcement ended weeks of speculation.

According to the rules of the Roman Catholic Church, only men who abstain from sex may be ordained and serve as priests.

Source: BBC