GULAHMAD ORYAKHAIL ARRESTED IN LITTLEHAMPTON OVER ALLEGED SEXUAL ASSAULT AND STALKING

A young Afghan man, Gulahmad Oryakhail, has appeared before the courts in connection with serious allegations involving a 14-year-old girl in Littlehampton. Oryakhail, aged 21, who arrived in the United Kingdom under the Armed Forces resettlement scheme following his escape from Afghanistan after the Taliban's rise to power, now faces multiple charges related to an incident that took place near Harbour Park Amusements.

According to court documents, the incident occurred on October 25, when the girl was out walking her dog in the vicinity of the popular seaside attraction. It is alleged that Oryakhail forcibly placed his hands under her bra and between her legs, actions that constitute sexual assault. The court was informed that during the encounter, Oryakhail repeatedly kissed the girl on the lips and neck, made explicit sexual requests, and attempted to lure her into a more secluded area, raising concerns about his intentions and the safety of young people in the area.

Following the incident, Oryakhail is accused of engaging in a pattern of stalking the girl over the next two days, from October 25 to October 27. Prosecutor Mr. Jeremy King stated that Oryakhail bombarded the girl with numerous phone messages during this period, which heightened the distress and fear experienced by the victim. The police eventually located and arrested him near her residence, where he was riding his bicycle close to the seafront during the time of his apprehension.

Oryakhail was initially brought before Crawley Magistrates' Court, where he was held in custody. He has since been transferred to Lewes Crown Court for a plea hearing and trial preparation scheduled for November 26. During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Oryakhail has been residing in the UK for approximately twelve months, living with his parents. He claims that the girl told him she was 18 years old and that she consented to their sexual contact, even voluntarily providing him with her phone number. These assertions are part of his defense, as he contests the charges of sexual assault and stalking.

It was also noted that Oryakhail is employed part-time at a Wimpy bar in the local area. His family was granted UK residency in 2021, largely due to the assistance of his brother, who helped him gain entry through connections with the British Armed Forces. The girl's family was described as 'angry and agitated' when police arrived to arrest Oryakhail, who was seen riding his bike near the seafront at the time of the incident. Authorities have decided to keep him in custody, citing concerns that he poses a significant risk to vulnerable young individuals in the community.

The ongoing court proceedings will determine the outcome of the case, with Oryakhail maintaining his innocence and contesting the charges brought against him. The case has attracted considerable attention in Littlehampton, raising questions about safety and the presence of recent immigrants in the area.