A serving Metropolitan Police officer has been charged with the rape of a 15-year-old Afghan boy at a west London police station, in a case that has sent shockwaves through the force.
Mohammed Rahman, 32, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Tuesday facing allegations of sexually assaulting the teenage boy at an Uxbridge police station. The officer, who remains suspended from duty, spoke only to confirm his name and address during the brief hearing.
Allegations and Immediate Response
The charges stem from an incident that allegedly occurred while the teenager was in police custody. According to court documents, the assault is said to have taken place at a police facility in Uxbridge, raising serious questions about safeguarding procedures within the Metropolitan Police.
Following the allegations, the Metropolitan Police confirmed that Rahman has been suspended from duty pending the outcome of legal proceedings. A force spokesperson stated: "We recognise the gravity of these allegations and the concern they will cause. Professional standards are investigating alongside the criminal proceedings."
Legal Proceedings and Bail Conditions
District Judge Michael Snow granted Rahman conditional bail with strict requirements. The officer must surrender his passport, report daily to a local police station, and reside at his home address. He is prohibited from contacting the alleged victim or any prosecution witnesses.
The case has been transferred to Isleworth Crown Court, where Rahman is scheduled to appear for a preliminary hearing on September 16. The Crown Prosecution Service's Special Crime Division is overseeing the prosecution.
Broader Implications for Police Accountability
This case emerges amid ongoing scrutiny of police conduct in London, particularly concerning the treatment of vulnerable individuals in custody. The involvement of an Afghan teenager as the alleged victim has drawn attention to the protection of migrants and young people within the justice system.
The Metropolitan Police has faced increasing pressure to address misconduct within its ranks, with this latest case likely to intensify calls for reform and improved oversight of officer behaviour.
