MOHAMMED RABI'S HORRIFIC SEXUAL ASSAULT IN LEEDS CITY CENTRE SHOCKS COMMUNITY
In May 2023, a disturbing incident unfolded in the heart of Leeds city centre, where a woman was subjected to a heinous sexual assault while she was in a state of near unconsciousness.The victim, whose identity remains protected, expressed her profound distress and trauma, stating, “I would not wish it on anyone.” The perpetrator, identified as Mohammed Rabi, an Algerian national, approached her after they met at a local bar.
Rabi insisted on walking her home, and as they moved through the city, he was captured on CCTV footage engaging in a series of disturbing acts.
Witnesses and CCTV operators observed him assaulting the woman, who was described as limp and unresponsive, lying on the pavement near a pedestrian bridge in the Call Lane area.
According to reports, Rabi was seen touching her groin area and appeared to be sniffing her, actions that caused shock among viewers.
He was also observed attempting to remove her leggings or tights and going through her handbag.
The woman was clearly in a vulnerable state, and her condition prompted immediate concern from bystanders and passersby.
Police officers arrived at the scene to find Rabi trying to move her body, either by dragging or pulling her limp form.
He was quickly detained, handcuffed, and initially provided a false name to officers.
However, after being taken to the police station, he supplied his correct details.
The woman later recounted to authorities that she and her friend had been drinking at The New Penny on Call Lane earlier that night.
She remembered being seen on CCTV around 6:25 am, slumped near a pedestrian bridge in The Calls area.
She also described how Rabi had approached her and her friend earlier in the pub, and despite their efforts to dismiss him, he persisted.
She recalled telling him she had a boyfriend, but he disregarded her words and attempted to kiss her, then got on top of her in an aggressive manner.
The assault was characterized by the woman as a traumatic experience that has left her suffering from ongoing psychological issues, including panic attacks, night terrors, and reliance on medication and suicide helplines.
She emphasized the lasting impact of the incident, stating, “This has completely shattered what I perceived to be safe and seriously made me question where, who and what around me is safe.” Mohammed Rabi, aged 38 and residing on Stanley Road in Harehills, Leeds, admitted to a charge of sexual assault during his court appearance via video link from HMP Doncaster, where he was held on remand.
The court proceedings revealed that Rabi had fled Algeria in 2016 following an attack on his family by terrorists, seeking refuge in the UK.
Judge Andrew Stubbs KC sentenced Rabi to 22 and a half months in prison.
In his remarks, the judge condemned the offender’s actions, stating, “You targeted a particularly vulnerable female and when she tried to get rid of you, you persisted.
She found herself helpless and motionless on the ground.
She remembers trying to fight you off and you simulated sexual intercourse with her.
You took advantage of her for your own sexual gratification.” The judge further highlighted the severe psychological harm inflicted upon the victim, noting that her life has been profoundly affected by the assault.
Rabi was also ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of ten years, reflecting the court’s recognition of the gravity of his crimes and the lasting danger he poses to the community.
