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Australian league great Andrew Johns says an Ecstasy tablet he was caught with in London was pushed into a pocket of his jeans at a crowded club by an unknown person.
Johns yesterday confirmed he was issued with a caution for possession of an Ecstasy tablet in London on Sunday.
Johns was arrested but not charged by British transport police, who apparently were conducting a routine search at underground railway stations following the annual Notting Hill Carnival, a statement from Johns' management The Fordham Company said.
"Following an interview with police he was told the misdemeanour did not warrant being charged and instead was given an official caution," the statement said.
"Johns said today he recalled an unknown person pushing a tablet into his jeans at a crowded entertainment venue last Sunday - his last day in the United Kingdom following a six weeks' overseas holiday."
In the statement, Johns said: "I was having such a good time, seeing it was the last day before I flew home.
"I stupidly forgot about the tablet and instead of getting rid of it I left myself in a situation I soon deeply regretted.
"I have been a very foolish person and realise I have brought great disappointment to my family, friends and many people, including lots of youngsters who have looked up to me over the years."
Johns was one of 206 people arrested for drugs possession in London over the British holiday weekend.
In Britain a formal, or "simple", caution is not a criminal conviction.
However, it was recorded on the police database and might be considered in court if a person were tried for another offence, the UK Home Office said.
Johns, who was forced out of the game in April by a recurring neck injury, has been holidaying in Europe.
He and injured Brisbane Broncos skipper Darren Lockyer were guests at the Challenge Cup final between St Helens and Catalans at Wembley Stadium the day before his arrest.
He had been in London for a few weeks and had accepted an invitation by former Newcastle Knights player Billy Peden to pass on his tactical and kicking knowledge at the Harlequins Rugby League Club.
Johns had also been working with the Wallabies ahead of the World Cup, but was yesterday ruled out of joining them during the tournament as a coaching consultant in France.
- AAP
