Man jailed for eight years for a series of sex offences

A man from Blackburn who raped and sexually assaulted a woman has been jailed for eight years.

Yesterday (19 August 2021) at Stockport's temporary Crown Court, Ajmal Afuq (31/5/76), of Glenluce Crescent, Blackburn, was jailed for eight years after being found guilty at trial this week of one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault.

Afuq was sentenced yesterday to eight years for one count of rape, two and a half years for one count of sexual assault, and 12 months for one count of sexual assault. He is to serve the three sentences concurrently.

The charges against Afuq relate to a series of sexual assaults that took place in Greater Manchester between December 2019 and May 2020. These incidents took place in Mossley, Tameside. 

Detective Constable Philip Scargill, of GMP’s CID division, said: “I’d like to commend the lady who bravely came forward and reported these appalling crimes.

“She has shown incredible bravery and co-operation throughout what must have been a very difficult investigation.

“I hope today’s sentence provides some form of closure and comfort knowing Afuq will be behind bars for the next eight years.”

Anyone affected by this case should contact police online, if able, via www.gmp.police.uk , or call 101. Details can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Greater Manchester is nationally recognised as a model of good practice in terms of support services available to victims.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

• Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.
• Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]
• Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to boys and men in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182