Garda Inspector John Lynagh, who is leading the investigation into the rape and Shayanewako's disappearance, said, "We are anxious to speak to him in relation to an allegation of rape made by a minor from Cloughjordan. Shayanewako disappeared within a day or two of this allegation being made and we have had no luck in tracking him down."

The Sunday Tribune has learned that Shayanewako took his passport with him when he went missing and the gardai have informed Interpol of his disappearance.

Shayanewako, who is 33-years-old, is approximately 1.75m tall and of medium build and his hair is styled in black dreadlocks. He is understood to have worked as a wood-turner with a local crafts firm while living in the north Tipperary area.

Gardai have confirmed that he did have family in Nenagh but was estranged from his partner. "If anybody has any information about Shayanewako's whereabouts we ask them to contact Nenagh Garda station on 067-50450, " said Lynagh.