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Vijay Chawla (10/03/1959) of Rectory Lane, Bury has been sentenced to seven years at Manchester Crown Court today (24 April 2026).
Chawla was found guilty of rape and sexual assault against the same victim at a trial in January 2026.
On Saturday 18 March 2023, officers received a disclosure from a 72-year-old woman who reported she had been raped the night before at an address in Manchester.
Despite repeatedly telling him to stop, Chawla forced himself on the woman and subjected her to a terrifying ordeal.
Officers attended the scene, and the female victim was immediately supported by specialist officers and support services.
Chawla was arrested on the same day and later released pending further investigation.
Detective Sergeant Sam Cullen, of our Criminal Investigations Department, said:
“Firstly I would like to thank the victim in his horrifying incident to come forward and report their abuse to us, allowing us to conduct a thorough investigation.
“I commend the victim in this case for supporting our investigation, which has resulted in today’s sentence and sees justice served against Chawla.
“Our officers will provide support, conduct thorough investigations, and take firm action against offenders. Your allegations will be taken seriously, and you will be treated with dignity and respect."