Brutal Rapist Jailed for 16 Years After Sickening Attack in Woolwich
Osman Suleyman Sentenced
Osman Suleyman, 31, with no fixed address, has been locked up for 16 years at Woolwich Crown Court. He was also given an extended five years on licence after being found guilty of a horrific sexual assault and battery. The sentence was handed down on 26 June.
Shocking Crime Details
On 17 March, a jury unanimously convicted Suleyman of two counts of rape, assault causing actual bodily harm (ABH), threats to kill, and false imprisonment. He pleaded guilty to a separate ABH charge at the start of the trial.
The terrifying ordeal happened in the early hours of 5 October 2019. Suleyman and his friends had been out in Woolwich Town Centre before heading to a flat in Charlton, SE7, where Suleyman was staying temporarily.
Among the group was a 23-year-old woman known to Suleyman. When she refused his demand to perform sexual acts as “payment” for drugs and alcohol, Suleyman’s mood turned violent. He beat her with a knuckle duster and a knife sheath, then kicked her before forcing her to perform a sex act and ultimately raping her.
Aftermath and Arrest
The victim suffered severe cuts, bruises, and trauma. She managed to leave the flat and immediately sought help from a friend, who called the police. Officers arrived quickly and took her to hospital.
Police forced entry into the flat where the assault took place. Blood was smeared on walls and kitchen doors, with bloodstained clothing and bedding found in a washing machine. Suleyman was arrested at the scene but refused to cooperate, claiming innocence and giving “no comment” responses during his interview.
Investigator’s Reaction
“This was a horrible crime and the victim was subjected to a dreadful ordeal. Thankfully she has been able to recover from her injuries, but the impact of such a crime goes beyond the physical injury,” said Detective Constable Ben Harrington of the South East Command Unit.
“Suleyman is a violent man and the jury found him unanimously guilty on all charges. This is certainly one of the most shocking cases I have ever had to deal with. The violence used was appalling. Suleyman now faces a long term in prison for his crime; it is thoroughly deserved.”
