Elton Jantjies, the rugby world cup-winning South Africa flyhalf, was arrested Sunday at Johannesburg’s airport for allegedly causing “malicious damages to property” while on a flight departing from Dubai.
Jantjies, 31, was detained at OR Tambo International Airport and later released on 1,000 rand (£51) bail.
He is expected to appear before a magistrates court on Monday.
Jantjies’ agent claimed that Jantjies was accused of having damaged a light aboard the plane.
James Adams stated, “We believe that this incident has been unnecessarily escalated.” a statement.
“Our client will, however, continue to comply with the investigation process. He will treat the matter with seriousness.”
Jantjies, who played 41 games for the Springboks, was part of the 2019 World Cup winning squad. He was on holiday with his family in Turkey, and then flew home via Dubai.
Spokesperson for South African Police Service Colonel Athlenda Mate said that “The SAPS confirms that the 31 year-old man, who was detained at OR Tambo International Airport for maliciously damaging property, has been released on bail.”