Wembley Man Found Guilty of Two Rapes, Four Years Apart
Himanshu Makwana, 42, from Thurlby Road, Wembley, was convicted on Tuesday, 12 November, of two counts of rape at Harrow Crown Court, sitting at Willesden Magistrates.
Snapchat Predator Targeted Young Women
The offences happened four years apart but shared chilling similarities. In 2019, Makwana used Snapchat to groom his first victim, an 18-year-old woman. After months of chatting, he lured her to an empty office block where he raped her. The crime was reported, but no suspect was identified at the time.
In April 2023, Makwana struck again. Posing as a 19-year-old named ‘Samir’ on Snapchat, he began messaging a 16-year-old girl. He waited near her school, tricked her into helping carry books, then locked her in his car. After giving her alcohol, he drove her to a deserted commercial building and raped her.
Police Praise Brave Victims and Thorough Investigation
Detective Constable Lewis Jelley said: “Makwana pretended to be a young man on social media to prey on vulnerable girls. He committed a horrific crime once—and then again a few years later. I’m thrilled the jury found him guilty after a painstaking investigation.
“I want to thank the two brave young women who came forward and showed patience throughout the investigation. Without their courage, we wouldn’t be here today.
“This verdict proves the Met’s commitment to tackling violence against women and girls. No matter how long ago the offence took place, we’ll work to secure justice.”
How Police Cracked the Case
Makwana was arrested on 27 November 2023, just one day after the second victim reported the crime. A witness snapped a photo of Makwana’s car, leading officers straight to him. DNA taken at the arrest linked him to the 2019 assault, identifying the previously unknown suspect.
Charged with both rapes on 22 December 2023, Makwana remains in custody ahead of sentencing. He will be sentenced at Harrow Crown Court on 17 January 2025.
