SULEMAN VAPIWALA SENTENCED FOR RAPE IN BLACKBURN: SHOCKING CRIME IN MULTI-STOREY CAR PARK

In a case that has sent shockwaves through the Blackburn community, Suleman Vapiwala, a 45-year-old man, was sentenced to nine years in prison after being found guilty of raping a 13-year-old boy in a multi-storey car park. The incident, which took place in 1999, remained undetected for years until a DNA sample linked Vapiwala to the crime, ultimately leading to his arrest and conviction.

Vapiwala, who resides on Sussex Drive in Blackburn and is separated from his wife, had initially managed to evade detection following the assault. His opportunity to be identified came after he committed a drink-driving offence, which prompted police to take a DNA sample from him. This sample matched the evidence collected from the crime scene, confirming his involvement in the sexual assault.

During the trial at Preston Crown Court, Vapiwala maintained his innocence, claiming that the sexual activity with the boy was consensual. However, the jury, after just twenty minutes of deliberation, returned a guilty verdict on the charge of rape. In addition to the nine-year prison sentence, Vapiwala received a concurrent two-year sentence for indecent assault, a crime he admitted to during proceedings.

Furthermore, the court ordered Vapiwala to be placed on the sex offenders’ register for life. He was also subjected to a sexual offences prevention order, which prohibits him from having contact with individuals under the age of 18 without parental permission. The judge, Andrew Gilbart QC, described Vapiwala as a dangerous individual and praised the victim for demonstrating 'considerable dignity' throughout the proceedings.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Gilbart highlighted the vulnerability of the young victim, describing him as an unhappy and disturbed child who often hung around Blackburn town centre seeking something to do. The judge emphasized the serious impact the assault had on the boy’s well-being and condemned the defendant’s actions.

Addressing Vapiwala directly, the judge stated, “You went into Blackburn town centre, I accept for innocent purposes, but you seized your opportunity to obtain gratification from a 13-year-old boy. This is a bad case. I am going to pass a sentence which makes it plain that those who prey on children in public places will be severely punished.”

Judge Gilbart also expressed his concern over Vapiwala’s apparent lack of remorse, adding, “You have not a glimmer of remorse. I also take the view you are dangerous.”

The court was informed that the young victim was left distressed and crying after the assault. Vapiwala explained to the jury that he met the boy after losing money gambling, admitting that there was sexual contact but denying the charge of rape, claiming that the boy had made advances to him instead. Despite his claims, the jury found him guilty, leading to his lengthy imprisonment and lifelong registration as a sex offender.