Hong Kong rugby star Faizal Solomona denies groping, admits vandalism
Pleads guilty to damaging police station door bolt during custody.
Hong Kong professional rugby player Faizal Solomona Penesa has entered mixed pleas in Eastern Court regarding an incident from September 2025. The 33-year-old Samoa-born prop, who represents the Hong Kong rugby team, pleaded not guilty to one count of assault by groping a female patron at Bobby's Rabble on Wyndham Street. However, he pleaded guilty to criminal damage for breaking a door bolt at Central police station while in custody following his arrest.
Court records reveal Solomona and the complainant were at adjacent high tables with separate groups on the evening of September 27. The alleged assault occurred in the early hours of the next day, after which the woman turned and identified him. A second witness filed a police report, leading to his arrest. While detained, Solomona became emotionally distressed and kicked the holding area's door bolt, causing it to bend. The vandalism charge carries potential penalties, while the molestation charge will proceed to trial. The case highlights legal complexities for public figures and the dual nature of the allegations.
- Faizal Solomona pleaded guilty to damaging a door bolt at Central police station.
- He pleaded not guilty to groping a woman at Bobby's Rabble in September 2025.
- The alleged victim identified Solomona after the incident; a witness filed the police report.
Why It Matters
Case underscores accountability for public figures facing both serious criminal allegations and property damage charges in Hong Kong.