A Sudanese national, who was being accommodated in a four-star hotel funded by British taxpayers, has been convicted of a series of brazen sexual assaults against women while working for a food delivery service.
Mohammed Ali Bashir, 24, targeted his victims during daylight hours in Bournemouth, using his position as a delivery rider to approach them before launching his attacks. His crimes have sparked outrage and serious questions about the monitoring of asylum seekers within the system.
Attacks in Broad Daylight
Bournemouth Crown Court heard how Bashir's spree took place over a single afternoon. In one incident, he followed a 20-year-old woman, grabbing her from behind. Mere minutes later, he assaulted a second woman, aged 21, in a similarly predatory manner.
His third victim, a 41-year-old woman, was targeted as she walked along a street. The court was told that Bashir, on his bicycle, circled her before reaching out and assaulting her.
Funded by the Public Purse
At the time of the offences, Bashir was living at the four-star Hallmark Hotel in Bournemouth, a cost entirely covered by the Home Office. This detail has fuelled anger, with critics labelling the asylum accommodation system "broken" and a burden on the public.
The case highlights the controversial policy of housing migrants in hotels, which has cost the UK taxpayer billions of pounds and become a focal point in the national debate on immigration.
Justice Served and Awaiting Sentence
Following a trial, a jury found Bashir guilty of three counts of sexual assault. He was acquitted on one further count. Judge William Mousley KC remanded Bashir into custody ahead of his sentencing, stating he was considering an immediate prison term.
This conviction brings a measure of justice to the victims but underscores a growing concern over public safety and the effectiveness of the UK's immigration and asylum processes.
