A chilling court case has concluded with the conviction of an Afghan asylum seeker for the brutal rape of a vulnerable teenager in what should have been a safe community space.
Horrific Attack in Children's Play Area
Mohammad Ali Rakhshani, a 21-year-old Afghan national, targeted his 17-year-old victim in a play park in Wythenshawe, Manchester, in what prosecutors described as a "predatory and calculated" assault. The court heard how Rakhshani approached the distressed teenager, who was visibly upset and vulnerable, before leading her to a secluded area of the park and subjecting her to a terrifying ordeal.
Vulnerable Victim Targeted
The Manchester Crown Court trial revealed disturbing details about the September 2023 attack. The young victim had been crying and was in a clearly distressed state when Rakhshani spotted her and seized the opportunity to exploit her vulnerability.
Prosecutor Rob Hall described the incident: "He took her to a play park and sat her on a bench. He then subjected her to a prolonged sexual assault, ignoring her repeated pleas for him to stop."
Forensic Evidence Secures Conviction
The case against Rakhshani was strengthened by crucial forensic evidence, including DNA matching that conclusively linked him to the crime. Despite initially denying the allegations, the scientific evidence left no doubt about his involvement in the brutal attack.
Judge's Stern Warning
Following the guilty verdict, Judge Nicholas Dean KC delivered a stark warning to the convicted rapist about his impending sentence. The judge emphasised the seriousness of the offence and the lasting trauma inflicted upon the young victim.
"You have been convicted of a very serious offence indeed," Judge Dean stated. "You should be under no illusions that the sentence will be anything other than a substantial custodial sentence."
Community Safety Concerns
The case has raised significant concerns about public safety and the vulnerability of young people in community spaces. The fact that the attack occurred in a children's play area has particularly disturbed local residents and community leaders.
Key aspects of the case that alarmed the community include:
- The predatory nature of targeting a visibly distressed teenager
- The use of a children's play area for the assault
- The prolonged nature of the attack despite victim resistance
- The lasting psychological impact on the young victim
Sentencing Awaited
Mohammad Ali Rakhshani has been remanded in custody awaiting sentencing next month. The court has ordered pre-sentence reports, including an assessment of his dangerousness to the public, which will influence the length and type of sentence imposed.
This case highlights ongoing concerns about violent sexual offences in community settings and the importance of robust legal responses to protect vulnerable members of society from predatory individuals.
