Afghan National Admits Guilt in Oxfordshire Kidnapping and Rape Cases
Najeebullah Arab, a 39-year-old Afghan national, has pleaded guilty to charges of kidnapping, rape, and sexual assault in two separate attacks on women in Oxfordshire earlier this year, as heard in a UK court. Arab, residing on Mayfield Avenue in Grove, entered his guilty pleas at Oxford Crown Court on Thursday, with sentencing scheduled for a later date.
Details of the Two Separate Attacks in January
According to prosecutors, the first incident occurred on January 21 in Grove, where a woman in her late twenties was approached by Arab while walking along Main Street at approximately 9:30 PM. After a brief interaction, the woman continued walking, but Arab followed her and sexually assaulted her, as reported by police.
Just six days later, a second and more severe attack took place in nearby Wantage. On January 27, a woman in her late teens was walking alone at about 11:15 PM when Arab approached her on a bicycle along Grove Road. After a short conversation, he led her towards a secluded area behind Mably Way, where he raped and kidnapped her, according to investigators. The court heard that he dragged the victim from an alleyway into a nearby field before carrying out the assault.
Arrest and Charges in the Case
Officers from Thames Valley Police arrested Arab on January 30, and he was formally charged two days later. Initially, he pleaded not guilty to the kidnapping charge but later admitted to all offences, including rape, kidnapping, and two counts of sexual assault.
Police Commend Victims' Courage and Evidence Strength
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May praised the victims for their bravery in coming forward. He stated, "Firstly, I want to acknowledge the victims in this case for the incredible courage they've shown in coming forward. Thames Valley Police take reports of sexual offences extremely seriously, especially those involving violence against women and girls."
He added that the guilty plea reflected the strength of the evidence gathered by investigators, noting, "Faced with the weight of that evidence, he had no option but to admit what he had done."
Sentencing and Ongoing Commitment to Justice
Arab remains in custody and will be sentenced at a later hearing at Oxford Crown Court. Police emphasized their commitment to protecting the public and ensuring that offenders responsible for violent crimes against women are brought to justice, underscoring the importance of community safety and legal accountability in such cases.
