Redbridge rapist found guilty

AN “ABHORRENT ATTACK” is how police described the events on the morning of 7th February as a 19 year old woman tried to walk peacefully through Roding Valley Park in Redbridge – but was stopped and repeatedly assaulted.

The woman was initially approached by a man she did not know, but who said that he had drugs in his possession and, as the police were nearby, he wanted her to walk along with him so that he would not arouse suspicion. He said that if anyone asked she should say she was his sister.

The woman refused to comply – but the man took hold of her and forced her to walk along with him, before dragging her into a bush and seriously sexually assaulting her. He then stoke her mobile phone and ran off.

After a few minutes the woman found the strength to try to get away from the scene herself, but as she got back into the main part of the park the man – who had not gone far – saw her. He forced her back into the bushes and sexually assaulted her again, before leaving again.

The woman once more collected herself and tried to get away, to safety. Fortunately this time she saw some other people and she told them what had happened and they called the police.

Officers from the East Area Safeguarding Team began an immediate investigation. They collected forensic evidence and were able to identify Motiur Rahman, 25, of no fixed abode, as their suspect. He was arrested on 12th February and charged the following day.

Rahman appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 2nd July, where he pleaded guilty to one count of rape, two counts of attempted rape, four counts of assault and one count of theft. He will return to the court on 27th July for sentencing.

The officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Sergeant Vince Fedder, said, “This was an abhorrent attack on a woman who was out in broad daylight. She had every right to pass through the area without something so awful happening to her. Her bravery throughout this ordeal has been commendable; I would like to thank her for supporting the investigation which has secured this conviction. Rahman’s actions that day are remarkable in their cowardice; I hope he will receive a substantial sentence to allow him plenty of time to think about what he has done.”

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