French authorities are investigating an alleged rape that occurred earlier this year in the presidential Elysee Palace, the Paris prosecutor's office says.
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A woman soldier working at the palace accused a fellow serviceman of rape, according to French President Emmanuel Macron's office.
Both were stationed at the Elysee, but the accused serviceman has since been moved away from his post, it said.
The prosecutor's office told The Associated Press the investigation was opened on July 12 and the accused serviceman has been questioned as an "assisted witness," a status meaning he was not at the time interviewed as a suspect facing potential charges.
The Elysee said it would not comment on a judicial investigation that is underway, but that as soon as the palace heard about the case, "measures were immediately taken: listening, supporting and accompanying the victim".
The newspaper Liberation reported on Friday the alleged attack took place after a farewell party for Elysee staff members on July 1.
The newspaper said Macron had attended the party but left, and the alleged rape occurred later in a high-security building that is part of the presidential complex. Macron resides at the Elysee.
The revelation about the investigation comes amid growing efforts in France to fight and speak out about sexual violence.
"It shows that rape can happen anywhere, in any socioeconomic environment, to anyone. Even in the most secure places," said Suzy Rotman from the Women's Rights Collective and founder of a French group for rape victims.
"Sexual violence is everywhere."
Tens of thousands of women have shared testimonies online in recent weeks of being harassed or mistreated when filing sexual abuse complaints in France.
The country has also seen a surge in recent online accusations of sexual misconduct in the media and theatre industries, following similar outpourings around alleged sexual wrongdoing by sports coaches and cultural figures.
Rotman called for special courts for sexual violence cases and more training for police in handling them.
Australian Associated Press
