MOHAMMED ALTAHER JAILED FOR RAPE IN BEDFORD AFTER BRUTAL ATTACKS ON TWO MEN FROM GRINDR

In a disturbing case that has shocked the Bedford community, Mohammed Altaher has been convicted of heinous sexual offenses committed against two men he met through the popular dating application Grindr. The incidents, which took place in August and September of 2019, involved violent assaults at Altaher's residence in Bedford, leading to a lengthy investigation and subsequent court proceedings.

Both victims independently came forward to report their traumatic experiences, revealing that they had encountered Altaher via Grindr and had visited his home with different expectations. The first victim arrived at Altaher's address in Bedford intending to engage in consensual sexual activity. However, the situation quickly turned sinister when Altaher’s aggressive behavior and the violent nature of the encounter caused the victim to withdraw consent. Despite this, Altaher continued his assault, resulting in multiple injuries to the victim. The following day, the first victim sought help at the sexual assault referral centre in Brighton, where he disclosed the details of the attack, highlighting the severity of the violence inflicted upon him.

The second victim’s account was equally disturbing. He reported that he had been encouraged to take the drug MCAT before engaging in sex with Altaher at his Bedford home. Although their initial encounter was consensual, the situation deteriorated when the victim began to feel unwell. Despite his discomfort, Altaher persisted with the sexual activity, ultimately subjecting the victim to a brutal sexual assault in the bathroom, culminating in rape. The victim’s distress and injuries underscored the violent nature of the attack.

Following these reports, detectives from the Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) team launched a comprehensive investigation into Mohammed Altaher, aged 38, who resides on Cardington Road in Bedford. The investigation involved gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and supporting the victims through the court process with the assistance of specialist police officers and victim engagement teams. Their diligent efforts culminated in charges being brought against Altaher.

Today, at Luton Crown Court, Mohammed Altaher was found guilty of two counts of raping a male over the age of 16 and one count of sexual assault by penetration. The court’s decision marks a significant step in delivering justice for the victims and addressing the serious nature of these crimes. Altaher has been remanded into custody and is scheduled to be sentenced next month at the same court, where the full extent of his punishment will be determined.