Predator Caught After Offering ‘Help’ – Then Raping Woman in Southampton
A 33-year-old man from Southampton faces justice after duping a woman into his van under the guise of a good Samaritan’s lift – only to launch a horrifying attack. Shafiullah Zahid’s reckless night ended in a six-figure nightmare for his victim, who bravely reported the crime and helped police bring him down.
Fake Good Samaritan’s Ride Turns Into Nightmare
The 23-year-old woman had been out with friends in Southampton but got separated and found herself alone, with no money and a dying phone battery. Struggling to walk along Northam Road, she was approached in the early hours of July 22, 2018, by Zahid driving a white van.
He offered her a lift home. Grasping at hope, she accepted and immediately asked for a phone charger to save her battery. Alarm bells rang straight away, so she texted a friend while still in the van.
Rape and Escape: The Victim’s Fight
Instead of a safe journey home, Zahid drove her to an unknown location, forced her into the back of his van, and repeatedly raped her. After the terrifying ordeal, she demanded he take her home. Zahid tried to keep her there, but she insisted on leaving.
She made him drop her off near, but not too close to, her home. Under pressure, Zahid handed over his phone number – pretending innocence. The moment she walked through her front door, she told someone what had happened and contacted the police.
Police Crack Case with Crucial Evidence
Detective Constable Sue Hampton led the investigation from Southampton Central Police Station. Using the phone number Zahid forced on the victim, officers quickly identified him. DNA evidence sealed his fate.
Following a three-week trial, a jury at Southampton Crown Court found Zahid guilty of two counts of rape. He was sentenced to seven-and-a-half years in prison, to run concurrently.
“We commend the woman’s courage. Zahid’s behaviour was predatory and utterly disgraceful. Hampshire Constabulary is committed to supporting survivors and bringing offenders to justice,” said Detective Constable Hampton.
Speak Out: Support Is Available
If you or someone you know has been a victim of rape or sexual assault, report it as soon as possible. Hampshire Constabulary urges victims to reach out – even if you’re unsure. Confidential support and advice are available from various organisations, with no obligation to involve the police initially.
Don’t stay silent. Help is out there.
