Salford Man Jailed Over Shocking Manchester City Centre Rape
Rida Awof, 30, from Salford, was slapped with a hefty six years and four months behind bars today at Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester. The court heard how he viciously attacked a 22-year-old man in Manchester City Centre on the early hours of Monday, 31 January 2023. Awof must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being booted out of the UK.
How Police Cracked the Case
The nightmare began on 1 February 2022, when police received a shocking rape disclosure from the victim. The young man had been targeted by a stranger around 3:30 am while walking home after a night shift. An intense investigation followed, including:
- Detailed CCTV footage analysis
- An Achieving Best Evidence (ABE) victim interview
- Forensic examination of the victim’s clothing
The breakthrough came thanks to a partial DNA match from a previous 2021 arrest, which pointed the finger squarely at Awof.
Offenders Arrest and Guilty Plea
Rida Awof was arrested on suspicion of rape on 20 May 2022 and charged on 9 November 2022. He pleaded guilty on 2 May 2023, sealing his fate and leading to today’s sentencing.
Victim’s Bravery Praised by Police
“The victim showed immense bravery throughout this ordeal,” said Detective Constable Annabel Lewis of GMP’s City of Manchester district. “Despite repeated harassment and aggression from Awof, the victim refused to give consent and did all he could to seek help.”
On the night, when the victim called out for help from passing motorists and a cyclist, no aid came – until a security officer arrived, forcing the attacker to flee. The victim was then taken to safety, enabling police to swiftly launch a manhunt that ended with Awof behind bars.
DC Lewis added, “Thanks to the victim’s courage and the dedication of our officers, we’ve held Awof accountable and made our community safer.”
