A man has been jailed for raping a woman in a public toilet in a Dorset seaside town.
Mohammed Abdullah, 19, from West Drayton, Middlesex, attacked the young woman in the early hours of July 6, 2025, on Undercliff Drive, in Bournemouth after offering her a lift on his e-bike.
The Syrian national - who gave his self-defined ethnicity as Arab - raped her in a public toilet near the East Cliff Zig-Zag before fleeing the scene.
Detective Inspector Shaun Inkpen of Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team said: "Firstly, I would like to acknowledge the bravery of the young woman in coming forward and reporting such a horrific and terrifying sexual attack.
"Throughout our investigation and the subsequent criminal justice process she has shown immense strength, courage and resilience.
"This young woman’s evidence played a crucial role in securing Abdullah’s conviction and subsequent custodial sentence."
After the attack, the victim flagged down a member of the public, used their phone to contact her mother, and police were alerted.
A full investigation led by Dorset Police resulted in Abdullah’s arrest and he was later charged with rape and sexual assault by penetration.
He was found guilty of both offences on May 15 following a trial at Bournemouth Crown Court.
On August 21, Abdullah was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison and placed on the sex offenders register for life.
Detective Inspector Inkpen praised the investigative work that led to the conviction.
He said: "This was a challenging investigation which required a methodical and detailed approach.
"Abdullah was identified as the offender due to extensive enquiries carried out by MCIT detectives and police staff colleagues.
"I would like to thank my investigation team for their comprehensive work and the Crown Prosecution Service’s Wessex RASSO Unit for its assistance in securing this conviction and sentence.
"Reporting sexual violence is incredibly difficult.
"However, I hope this demonstrates our commitment to support victims of rape and sexual offences and ensuring perpetrators are held to account for such serious crimes."
Samantha Wright, senior crown prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service, said:
She said: "Mohammed Abdullah exploited a young woman who was vulnerable and simply trying to get home safely.
"Having gained her trust by offering her a lift, he subjected her to a terrifying sexual attack.
"The victim's bravery in reporting what happened and supporting this prosecution has ensured a dangerous offender has been held accountable for his actions.
"Violence against women and girls has no place in our communities.
"The CPS will continue to work tirelessly to bring perpetrators of these abhorrent offences to justice."
Police have encouraged anyone who has experienced sexual violence to seek support and consider coming forward.
Victims of rape or sexual assault can contact police by calling 101 to speak with a specially trained officer, or dial 999 in emergencies.
The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre can also be reached on 0800 970 9954 for confidential advice and support.
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