Life Sentence for Camden Serial Attacker Who Stalked Women at Night
Dangerous Predator Locked Up for 15 Years Minimum
Francis Mukendi, 27, of Finsbury Park Road, has been handed a life sentence with a minimum of 15 years behind bars at Wood Green Crown Court. The sentence came after a six-week trial revealed his horrifying spree of sex attacks against six women aged 20 to 32 in the Camden area.
Gruesome Attacks Under Cover of Darkness
Mukendi was convicted of four counts of rape, three counts of attempted rape, two counts of sexual assault, and four counts of possession of bladed weapons. He targeted women walking home alone late at night between September 2017 and December 2019.
The court heard how Mukendi would follow victims to their doorsteps or stairwells. Striking when they fumbled for their keys, he’d launch brutal attacks armed with knives or a hammer. Victims were forced into oral sex before Mukendi fled the scene.
Police Credit Victims’ Bravery for Justice
“He is an extremely dangerous offender who targeted these women as they walked home alone in the dark… They have been left traumatised by what has happened to them,” said Chief Superintendent Andy Carter.
The Met’s top cop praised the victims for their courage and crucial evidence, which helped bring Mukendi down. Following the first attack, police investigations stalled despite extensive efforts.
A breakthrough came with CCTV footage released in December 2020 that helped identify Mukendi. Shocked to see himself broadcasted, he surrendered to police the very next day.
Digital Evidence and Deadly Weapons Found
Officers seized Mukendi’s home, uncovering clothing matching CCTV images, a laptop with deleted footage recovered by experts, and deadly “zombie” and lock knives used in attacks. He was immediately charged and remanded.
Help Is Available for Victims
Chief Superintendent Carter vowed to protect women and vulnerable individuals across London. He urged anyone with information or who had suffered similar attacks to contact police quoting CAD1639/21MAR22.
- Report crimes by calling 101 or 999 in emergencies.
- Victims can reach out to specially trained officers for support and investigation.
- Contact The Havens on 0203 299 6900 or visit thehavens.org.uk.
- London Survivors Gateway helpline: 0808 801 0860 or survivorsgateway.london.
Justice has been served, but police remain on alert to catch predators like Mukendi. Stay safe and report suspicious behaviour immediately.
