SAIKOU JABANG SENTENCED IN LUTON FOR SEXUAL ASSAULT AND FRAUD CASES

Saikou Jabang, aged 42, was the focus of a serious criminal investigation following a disturbing incident that took place in Luton. On the early hours of Saturday, 11 August 2024, Jabang approached a woman on the street, initially pretending to offer her companionship under the guise of ensuring her safety. This deceptive act was a calculated move that ultimately led to a heinous sexual assault inside her own residence.

The incident prompted a swift response from Bedfordshire Police’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) unit. Through meticulous investigation, authorities identified Jabang as the suspect using CCTV footage that captured his movements and actions during the time of the attack. This evidence was crucial in building the case against him, leading to his subsequent arrest.

Following a comprehensive five-day trial held at Luton Crown Court in March, Saikou Jabang, who resides on Dumfries Street in Luton, was found guilty of the crime of rape. The court’s judgment was delivered on a Friday, and Jabang was sentenced to a total of eight years and four months in prison for his actions. Her Honour Judge Dhaliwal-Thomas described the impact of Jabang’s assault on the victim as “devastating,” emphasizing the profound and lasting trauma inflicted.

The victim, in a heartfelt statement, detailed the severe repercussions the assault has had on her daily life. She expressed her feelings of vulnerability and fear, stating, “This horrific attack has affected every part of my day-to-day life. I do not feel comfortable walking alone anymore outside and I constantly fear for my safety. I have never felt so vulnerable.” Her words underscore the deep emotional scars left by the assault and highlight the importance of justice in such cases.

Detective Constable Edward Mitchell, a member of Bedfordshire Police’s RASSO team, commented on the case, describing Jabang as “a dangerous predator who preyed on a vulnerable woman he saw on the street.” He praised the victim’s bravery in coming forward and cooperating with law enforcement throughout the investigation, which was instrumental in securing Jabang’s conviction. Mitchell reaffirmed the police’s commitment to protecting women and girls, stating, “Women deserve to feel safe in all public spaces, any time of day or night, and we are committed to continuing to tackle male violence against women and girls across our county.”

He also highlighted the police’s dedicated victim support efforts, noting that several specially trained victim engagement officers work closely with those affected by such crimes. These officers provide ongoing support, helping victims navigate the justice process and begin the journey of recovery.

In addition to the sexual assault conviction, Jabang pleaded guilty to a separate offence involving fraud by false representation, related to assuming someone else’s identity. He received an additional eight months’ imprisonment, which will run concurrently with his sentence for the sexual assault. This unconnected offence further demonstrates the pattern of criminal behavior associated with Jabang, who now faces significant time behind bars for his actions in Luton.