An Iraqi national who systematically exploited European border controls has been convicted and sentenced for a horrific sexual assault in the United Kingdom. Ahmed Hassan Al-Rashed, 24, illegally gained entry to Britain after already having lived unlawfully in three separate European countries.
The court heard how Al-Rashed's journey began when he first arrived in Europe via the Greek island of Samos in 2019. Despite being denied asylum, he subsequently moved to Germany and Belgium, residing in each country without legal permission before finally making his way to the UK concealed in the back of a refrigerated lorry.
Just months after his illegal entry, the predator struck in the market town of Boston, Lincolnshire. The Old Bailey was presented with chilling evidence of how Al-Rashed targeted his 15-year-old victim, following her before dragging her into an alleyway and subjecting her to a brutal attack.
Detective Chief Inspector James Oxley, who led the investigation, stated: "This was a predatory attack on a vulnerable child. The courage shown by the victim throughout our investigation and the trial has been remarkable."
During police interviews, Al-Rashed offered changing accounts of his actions before finally admitting to the sexual assault. His attempts to manipulate the truth were dismantled by thorough police work and forensic evidence.
The case has raised serious questions about border security and the movement of individuals between European nations. Al-Rashed's ability to repeatedly enter countries illegally despite previous asylum rejections highlights significant challenges in current immigration systems.
Judge Sarah Munro QC delivered a nine-year prison sentence with an extended licence period of five years, noting the calculated nature of the attack and the lasting trauma inflicted upon the young victim.
The victim's family released a statement through police: "No sentence will ever undo what happened, but we hope this brings some sense of justice and allows other victims to come forward."
