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A manhunt is underway for rapist Jonas Amogbokpa, 55, who fled midway through his trial at Woolwich Crown Court.
Amogbokpa kidnapped and raped a stranger in his car after spotting her walking home in Lewisham in August 2024.
He gave evidence on Wednesday, February 11, but failed to return the next day, telling his lawyer he was ill. Police found his door open at his home address, but he was gone.
Convicted in his absence of rape and kidnapping with intent to commit a sexual offence, he was not on remand. The judge issued an arrest warrant, describing him as a danger to the public. Efforts to trace him continue after three weeks.
A source said: “He clearly felt the evidence didn’t go well for him. He didn’t come to court the next day, telling his lawyer he was ill.”
Another source added:
“He had not been held on remand and so was able to escape justice. The judge has said he is a danger to the public due to his crimes.
“So far, he has not been apprehended. I think it is important that the public are made aware of this criminal who is now back on the streets of south London hiding out somewhere.”
A Met Police spokesperson said:
“Police enquiries to locate him are ongoing.
“Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”