Olympic marathon champion faces assault charges in Kenya

NAIROBI - Olympic marathon champion Samuel Wanjiru has landed in a Kenyan court after being charged with assault, attempted murder and illegal possession of a firearm, broadcaster Capital FM reported.

Wanjiru allegedly threatened his domestic help when he returned home drunk Wednesday. A fight with his wife then led to an assault and murder threats, the complaint said.

When a security guard tried to intervene, Wanjiru allegedly hit him in the face with the butt of an AK-47 assault rifle, leaving the guard seriously injured.

Neighbours called the police after hearing screams from the house.

Wanjiru reportedly does not possess proof of purchase or a licence for the rifle.

He rejected the allegations in court and was released on a bail of 300,000 shillings ($3,700). Wanjiru is due back in court early next year.