Three Men Charged with Rape After Alleged Brighton Beach Attack

Three men have been charged with rape following an alleged assault on a woman at Brighton beach in the early hours of October 5.

Quick Police Action Leads to Arrests

Sussex Police responded swiftly after a 33-year-old woman reported being attacked at 5am on the lower esplanade. After a “fast-paced investigation,” officers arrested and charged three men.

The suspects, Egyptian nationals Karin Al-Danasurt, 20, Ibrahim Alshafe, 35, and Iranian national Abdulla Ahmadi, 25, each face two counts of rape. All remain in custody awaiting their next court hearing.

Court Hearings Reveal Immigration Ties

Al-Danasurt and Alshafe appeared at Crawley Magistrates Court with Arabic interpreters. Both men live in a taxpayer-funded asylum seeker hotel in West Sussex.

Prosecutor Melanie Wootton revealed that Al-Danasurt is under investigation for immigration offences, and that the attack happened just a day after Alshafe’s asylum claim was rejected.

“This was a stranger rape on Brighton Beach by this accused with two others,” said Wootton. “Dragging a female to Brighton Beach and subjecting a female to a pretty terrifying ordeal.”

Ahmadi appeared separately at Brighton Magistrates Court with a Kurdish interpreter before being remanded in custody alongside the others.

Investigation Ongoing But No New Suspects

Detective Superintendent Andy Harbour praised officers for their rapid work, saying all suspects were identified through “thorough investigative work.” He also commended the victim’s bravery.

“I understand how distressing this incident will be for the community,” Harbour added. “Our dedicated partnership operations to protect women and girls will continue in earnest.”

Police confirmed they are not currently looking for anyone else linked to the case, known as Operation Brampton. However, they urge witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Next Steps: Crown Court Awaits

All three men are set to appear at Lewes Crown Court next month. If the case proceeds to trial, prosecutors must prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.

Rape charges carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

Interpreters have been used throughout the proceedings, reflecting the defendants’ international backgrounds and ensuring they can engage fully with the court process.

Community on Edge After Shocking Beach Attack

The incident has rattled Brighton, a busy seaside spot popular with millions each year. The lower esplanade is normally bustling, especially in warmer months.

Local authorities say they are intensifying efforts to protect women and girls, including more patrols, better lighting, and working closely with local venues and transport services.

Support for Victim Continues

The 33-year-old victim is receiving ongoing care and support from specialist police officers trained in sexual offence cases. UK law grants victims lifetime anonymity to protect their identity.

Support services include counselling, medical care, and help navigating the justice system through Sexual Assault Referral Centres.

Immigration Status Sparks Debate

The defendants’ immigration backgrounds have sparked public and political interest. Two were housed in government-provided asylum accommodation while their claims were processed, and the timing of a rejected asylum claim adds complexity to the case.

Legal experts stress the case must be judged solely on evidence, not immigration status, to ensure a fair trial.

Investigation Remains Active

While charges are laid, Operation Brampton remains ongoing. Police continue collecting evidence such as CCTV, forensic material, witness statements, and digital data.

Anyone with relevant information from the early hours of October 5 is urged to contact Sussex Police quoting Operation Brampton.

The Road Ahead

The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty, a cornerstone of British justice. The upcoming Lewes Crown Court hearings will set the stage for trial or pre-trial decisions.

The case highlights national challenges around violence against women and intersects with debates on immigration policy, but the focus remains squarely on justice, victim care, and community safety.