Today, on Friday 21 July 2023, Rida Awof, a 30-year-old man from Salford, was sentenced to six years and four months in prison after pleading guilty to rape at Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester. The harrowing incident took place in Manchester City Centre on Monday 31 January 2023, and Awof will serve a minimum of two-thirds of his sentence before facing deportation from the UK.
The case came to light on Tuesday 1 February 2022 when officers received a rape disclosure from a 22-year-old man who had been sexually assaulted by a stranger at around 3:30 am in Manchester City Centre. Following initial inquiries, extensive CCTV analysis, a thorough interview (ABE) with the victim, and forensic analysis of the victim’s clothing, the suspect was identified through a partial DNA match from a previous arrest in 2021.
Subsequently, on Friday 20 May 2022, Rida Awof was arrested on suspicion of rape and was taken into custody for questioning. After being charged with rape on Wednesday 9 November 2022, Awof entered a guilty plea on Tuesday 2 May 2023, leading to today’s sentencing.
Detective Constable Annabel Lewis of GMP’s City of Manchester district expressed her admiration for the victim’s bravery throughout the investigation. On the night of the incident, the victim was merely walking home from a night shift when Awof approached him, initiating conversation. Despite repeatedly declining and not consenting to Awof’s advances, the victim faced aggression and harassment, eventually leading to the distressing assault.
During the ordeal, the victim sought help from passing motorists and a cyclist but sadly received no assistance. It was only when a nearby security officer intervened that Awof fled the scene. The victim was later taken to safety, and the police investigation led to Awof’s arrest and prosecution.
DC Annabel Lewis commended the victim for reporting the incident, which enabled the authorities to find and apprehend Awof, thus ensuring the safety of the community. She also extended her gratitude to the dedicated officers involved in the case for their unwavering commitment in locating the offender and providing support to the victim throughout this traumatic ordeal.
