ONIMISI SEIDU FROM WALDERSLADE FLEEING UK ARRESTED AT HEATHROW AFTER 12 YEARS ON THE RUN FOR CHILD RAPE IN MAIDSTONE

In a case that has spanned over a decade, Onimisi Seidu, a man originally from Walderslade, has been finally apprehended at Heathrow Airport after fleeing the United Kingdom to avoid justice. The charges against him relate to heinous crimes involving the sexual assault of a child, with incidents dating back to the early 2000s. Seidu, now aged 47 and without a fixed address, was wanted by authorities for a series of serious offences that occurred between 2002 and 2006.

Seidu was initially scheduled to stand trial at Maidstone Crown Court in June 2007. However, he failed to appear in court, breaching his bail conditions. It was later revealed that he had traveled to Lagos, Nigeria, purportedly to care for his ailing mother, thereby evading the legal process. His absence prompted a warrant for his arrest, and he remained at large for over a decade, during which time he was considered a fugitive from justice.

His luck ran out when, on 24 March 2019, he was detained at Heathrow Airport while attempting to re-enter the United Kingdom. Authorities recognized him and arrested him on the outstanding warrant. Following his arrest, Seidu was remanded in custody and brought before Maidstone Crown Court. During his appearance on 1 April, he admitted to all four counts of child rape that had been brought against him, acknowledging his guilt for the offences committed years earlier.

Subsequently, on Friday, 10 May, Seidu was sentenced to 15 years in prison. The court also imposed additional measures to protect the public, including a one-year extended license period following his release. Furthermore, he was placed under an indefinite sexual harm prevention order, which restricts his activities and contact to prevent any future harm.

Prosecutor Daniel Stevenson provided details about the impact of Seidu’s crimes, noting that the victim had spoken with police and wished to share her experiences and the lasting effects of his actions. The case highlighted the importance of international cooperation in bringing offenders to justice, especially those who attempt to evade law enforcement by fleeing abroad.

Seidu’s case underscores the persistent efforts of authorities to track down and prosecute individuals accused of serious sexual offences, regardless of how long they have been on the run. His arrest and subsequent sentencing serve as a reminder that justice can be delayed but not denied, and that victims’ voices are ultimately heard and acted upon.