Lakapi Samoa has suspended the Manu Samoa head coach Mase Mahonri Schwalger effective immediately.

In a statement issued on Friday night, Lakapi Samoa said this was done following the filing of criminal charges.

The suspension, resolved by the Board on 30 September 2024, will be reviewed in three months. Mase will continue to be on full pay during this period.

“We respect the legal process and Lakapi Samoa will not be making any further comment as the matter is before the court,” said Lakapi Samoa.

Mase was charged by police last month on multiple sexual allegations and released on bail.

He is facing five charges that include unlawful sexual connection, attempted sexual violation, sexual conduct with a person under 16, indecent assault and common assault with possible additional charges.

Police Commissioner Auapaau Logoitino Filipo confirmed the charges with the Samoa Observer when contacted for a comment.

The two alleged victims are reportedly related to the head coach.

Mase succeeded the former Manu Samoa head coach Vaovasamanaia Seilala Mapusua with the appointment lasting a three-year term, starting in 2024 and extending to the end of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

There has been no official statement received from Lakapi Samoa regarding how the charges impact the employment of the coach with the rugby union.