Locations
Mayfield Avenue, Wantage, Oxfordshire, OX12
Description
Following an investigation by our Major Crime Unit, a man has pleaded guilty to kidnap, rape and sexual assault following incidents in Wantage and Grove.
Najeebullah Arab, aged 39, of Mayfield Avenue, Grove, today (12/3) pleaded guilty to one count each of kidnap and rape and two counts each of sexual assault following a hearing at Oxford Crown Court.
On Wednesday 21 January this year, a woman in her late twenties was approached by Arab on Cane Lane, Grove, who followed her to Main Street and sexually assaulted her.
On Tuesday 27 January, a woman in her late teens was approached by Arab who was riding a bicycle on Grove Road.
After speaking briefly with her, he sexually assaulted her, and then took her towards an area behind Mably Way, where he raped her.
Arab was arrested on Friday 30 January and was charged on Sunday 1 February. Arab is an Afghan national. He did not self-define his ethnicity when he came into police custody.
Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May said:
“Firstly, I want to acknowledge the victims in this case for the incredible courage they’ve shown in coming forward.
“Thames Valley Police take reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, especially those involving violence against women and girls.
“Our officers are committed to carrying out thorough investigations, supporting victims every step of the way, and working closely with our partners to help prevent further harm.
“The guilty plea in this case is a clear reflection of the strength and thoroughness of the evidence gathered by our officers in relation to these offences. Faced with the weight of that evidence, he had no option but to admit what he had done.
“We remain absolutely committed to protecting the public and ensuring offenders like Arab are brought to justice.”
Najeebullah Arab will be sentenced at a later date to be determined by the Court.