Serial Rapist Locked Up for 13 Years
A 41-year-old abuser has been sentenced to 13 years in jail after being found guilty of two rapes and coercive control. Aftab Zulfiqar, 41, of no fixed address, was sentenced at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court on 15 April 2026.
Survivor’s Bravery Shines Through Trauma
The victim showed incredible strength by speaking out, starting a painful journey to justice. She endured three years of relentless abuse, with Zulfiqar controlling every part of her life — from what she wore and ate to who she could talk to. His obsession even cost her a much-loved job.
A Relationship Marred by Horror
- Zulfiqar raped the woman multiple times, manipulating her into thinking it wasn’t rape.
- She suffered mental, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse throughout their relationship.
- Control tactics included constant demands for contact and isolating her from friends.
Despite the nightmare, she reported Zulfiqar via a police LiveChat in October 2023, which led to his arrest.
Victim Speaks Out: ‘He Took Everything From Me’
“My relationship with Aftab has had a huge impact on my life, more than can be put into words really. I had little confidence anyway but since being with Aftab, I have none at all. He drilled it into me that I’m ugly and worthless. I now struggle with confidence and don’t even want to meet anyone. “I don’t think I could ever trust someone again. I gave Aftab everything and he was never nice to me. I was so scared of doing anything wrong. After the smallest thing, he’d attack me and throw me out of his flat. “He would blame me for everything – once he smashed my hairdryer and physically attacked me because it was somehow my fault. I worry about future relationships, how I’ll be because I’m so deeply hurt. “This nightmare will stay with me forever, but I’m determined he hasn’t won. I can start living a peaceful life after five and a half years of hell.”
Police Praise Survivor’s Tenacity
Detective Constable Lucy Hamilton said:
“I want to commend the survivor for the remarkable courage she has shown in coming forward. Reporting offences like this is incredibly hard, and thanks to her bravery, a dangerous man is now behind bars. “We take all reports of rape and sexual offences extremely seriously and will relentlessly pursue offenders. Coercive and controlling behaviour is a criminal offence and will not be tolerated. “I hope this result brings her some justice as she rebuilds her life. Her courage has protected other women, and we will continue to support all survivors in bringing offenders like Zulfiqar to justice.”
