Diplomat accused of rape in New York City is BACK in South Sudan

The South Sudanese diplomat accused of raping a woman in New York City has returned to his home country after invoking diplomatic immunity to get out of custody. 

Charles Dickens Imene Oliha, 46, returned to his home country this week after being released by the NYPD. 

In a statement on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation said Oliha had been ‘immediately recalled’ and suspended pending the outcome of the police investigation.

Now, the US will have to launch extradition proceedings against South Sudan in order to bring him to justice if charges are filed. 

Charles Dickens Imene Oliha, 46, returned to his home country this week after being released by the NYPD

‘It is with regret that our diplomat was involved in an alleged rape incident with one of New York City residents. 

‘The leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation took the decision to immediately recall the diplomat in question, pending a full investigation from a specialized committee.

‘The diplomat in question is now back in South Sudan and has been suspended from his duties.’ 

The government added that it would cooperate ‘fully’ with the US authorities, but it did not specifically vow to extradite Oliha should he be charged. 

The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has not yet filed charges but its investigation is ongoing.