Sultani Bakatash, 29, has been found guilty of raping two 14-year-old girls after plying them with alcohol at his flat in Bolton. The offences occurred on December 6 last year, when Bakatash groomed one victim via Snapchat and invited her and a friend to his home in Georgina Court.
Details of the Attack
Bolton Crown Court heard that Bakatash provided alcohol to both teenagers, rendering them unconscious before raping them. He also sexually assaulted one victim and committed assault by penetration. After the attack, Bakatash fled the property but was arrested two days later by Greater Manchester Police's Child Protection Investigation Unit.
Background of the Offender
Bakatash, an Afghan national, has been in the UK for two years and was granted indefinite leave to remain. His mother, two brothers, and two sisters also live in the UK. Throughout the four-week trial, he denied all charges, but the jury found him guilty on two counts of rape, one of sexual assault, and one of assault by penetration.
Sentencing and Next Steps
Bakatash is scheduled to be sentenced on September 19. The case has highlighted concerns about grooming and the vulnerability of minors online. A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said, 'This was a horrific attack on two young girls, and we are pleased that justice has been served.'
