Abdul Shinwari, 24, of no fixed abode, has been charged with the rape of a 17-year-old girl in Manchester. The teenager was raped and sexually assaulted in the city centre, with the incident reported on Hope Street, near Piccadilly Gardens, at around 1:30am on July 14, 2026.
Charges and remand
Shinwari faces two counts of rape, two counts of sexual assault, non-fatal strangulation and possession with intent to supply. He has been remanded into police custody and will appear before Manchester Crown Court on Tuesday.
Police support for victim
Greater Manchester Police confirmed that specialist safeguarding officers are continuing to support the victim. The assault was reported near Piccadilly Gardens in the city centre.
Plans to improve Piccadilly Gardens
Piccadilly Gardens has become a notorious spot for low-level crime and anti-social behaviour in recent decades. Manchester City Council has proposed a series of revamps to increase safety and make the space more family-friendly, including brighter lighting and new CCTV cameras.
Interim council leader Garry Bridges said: "Residents have told us loud and clear what they want from Piccadilly Gardens. They want the area to look better and feel safer and that's exactly what we're going to deliver. There has already been significant investment in the area - including extra police and council resources - with even more on the way."
