A rising Somali long-distance runner who came to the UK seeking asylum has been charged with two sexual offences, including alleged sexual assault and strangulation, authorities confirmed.
Abdinasir Elmi, 26, whose immigration case is still ongoing, appeared in court last month and denies the charges.
The alleged incidents are said to have occurred on April 22, 2025, in locations around Lower Gardens and Central Gardens in Bournemouth.
Elmi was remanded in custody and is due to face trial at Bournemouth Crown Court next February.
A Promising Athletic Career Interrupted
Before these allegations surfaced, Elmi was gaining recognition in the British athletics scene.
He competes internationally for Bahrain and has trained with Bournemouth Athletic Club under coach Idris Hamud.
This season marked a breakthrough for him on the track.
Elmi ran 7:57.94 for 3000m, 13:50.98 for 5000m, and 29:03.99 for 10,000m, clocking times that place him among the top club-level distance runners in the UK.
His road performances include a 14:07 5km, a 29:00 10km, and a 14:32 parkrun in Bournemouth.
Rankings and Recognition
Elmi’s 13:50 5000m time places him high on the British circuit this season and near the qualifying marks for continental championships.
On the global stage, he is currently ranked 599th for the men’s 5000m, and his performances have made him a notable figure in Bahrain’s developing distance running programme.
For context, running sub-8 minutes for 3000m or sub-14 minutes for 5000m is typically considered the entry point for international-class distance runners.
Elmi’s results demonstrate that he was on the cusp of reaching that level.
England Athletics Responds
Following the charges, England Athletics, the taxpayer-funded governing body, has suspended Elmi’s membership while investigations continue. A spokesperson stated:
“We can confirm that Abdinasir Elmi’s membership with England Athletics has been suspended, and the matter is being investigated by UK Athletics.
We cannot comment further on an ongoing investigation.”
The suspension reflects the seriousness with which the organisation is treating the allegations.
A Career on Hold
Elmi’s promising trajectory on the track is now on hold pending legal proceedings.
While he has previously been celebrated for his breakthrough performances and potential on the international stage, the coming months will determine not only his legal fate but also the future of his athletic career.