MUHIB UDDIN SENTENCED IN SOUTHSEA FOR RAPE CASE

Muhib Uddin, a 31-year-old man from Newcomen Road, was convicted and sentenced to six years in prison for the rape of a 19-year-old woman. The attack occurred in an alleyway off Clarendon Road in Southsea around 10 pm on Saturday, August 29, 2020. The victim did not know her attacker.

Uddin pleaded guilty to the rape when he appeared at Portsmouth Crown Court in November, and the sentencing took place on Wednesday, January 13.

Senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Emma Crute, praised the victim for her bravery in reporting the assault. She stated, "We are pleased that the victim has found justice now that Uddin is behind bars. I hope the outcome of this case reassures members of the public that we take allegations of this type of offence extremely seriously, and will do everything in our power to bring offenders before the courts."

She added, "This has understandably been a traumatic time for the victim who has been supported by specialist officers at every stage of our investigation. I would like to commend her for her bravery and courage in coming forward and reporting what happened. I hope that today's sentence will give her some closure and help her to begin moving forward in her life."

Portsmouth's chief inspector Robert Mitchell from Hampshire Constabulary also commended the police efforts, saying, "The officers involved in this case have worked extremely hard to bring the investigation to the point we have reached today. I would like to thank them for their dedication to securing this outcome for the victim."

He further emphasized that stranger assaults of this nature are rare, stating, "I hope the community feels reassured that when we receive these sorts of allegations, we will take them seriously and do everything in our power to bring those responsible to justice. We work very hard in Portsmouth to tackle sexual offences in partnership with organisations that support survivors. We want you to have the confidence to come forward and talk to us if something has happened to you, or somebody you know."

Police are encouraging anyone who has been a victim of a sexual offence to contact Hampshire Constabulary by dialling 101 and speaking confidentially with an officer. For more information on support services for victims of sexual offences, a provided link offers additional resources.