Leon Baptiste's Arrest in Marrakech

Leon Baptiste, a former British athletics champion who had been reported as "missing" in Morocco for over two months, is actually serving a prison sentence in Marrakech for sexual assault involving a minor. His apparent disappearance had sparked significant concern among his friends, family, and athletes back in the UK, who had not heard from the coach since his arrival in Morocco more than two months ago. However, the mystery surrounding his status has been clarified. Sources from the Moroccan Ministry of Justice and the prosecutor's office confirmed to BBC Sport that Baptiste was arrested in Marrakech in May and is currently serving a 10-month sentence at Oudaya prison for his crime.

Contrary to the "inaccurate information" circulating in the media, the ministry source emphasized that Baptiste has not lost contact with his associates nor has he experienced any unexplained disappearance. The source elaborated, stating, "He is currently detained in the local prison in Marrakech, serving a sentence following his conviction by the competent judicial authorities in a correctional case." The 41-year-old athletics coach is reportedly "in good health," as noted by BBC Sport.

International Response and Family Notification

A spokesperson for the British Foreign Office commented on the situation, indicating that their department is providing assistance to a British national detained in Morocco and is in contact with Moroccan authorities regarding the matter. Sources revealed to BBC Sport that Baptiste had traveled to Marrakech with three other former British athletes, all of whom have since returned to the UK. His family has reportedly been notified of his incarceration.

Last Tuesday, a brief email was sent to athletes trained by Baptiste, including Olympic bronze medalist Charlie Dobson and Paralympic silver medalist Zac Shaw, announcing his resignation from his coaching position due to "unspecified health issues." Baptiste, who won gold medals in the 200 meters and the 4 x 100 meter relay at the 2010 Commonwealth Games, had retired at the age of 28 due to ongoing knee problems before transitioning to coaching.

As reported by h24info.ma.