A Leeds man has been jailed for seven and a half years after a shocking rape in the city centre. Abdi Wahab Abdulla, 31, was found guilty of raping a man following a terrifying attack caught on CCTV.
Attack Recorded on CCTV
Abdulla, from Harehills Avenue, was convicted at Leeds Crown Court after a four-day trial. He was found guilty of rape and attempted rape, and had already admitted theft against the same victim.
The incident happened on the morning of 14 January 2023. The 19-year-old victim had fallen asleep inside Queens Arcade after a night out. CCTV showed Abdulla entering the arcade, rifling through the victim’s belongings, stealing from him, then helping him to his feet and leading him outside.
Knife Threat and Brutal Assault Across Leeds
Abdulla then threatened the victim with a knife, forcing him to follow him across the city. Near the Merrion Centre, Abdulla orally raped the victim before attempting an anal rape in Woodhouse Moor Park. The victim later realized his phone, keys, and credit card had been stolen during the attack.
The victim reported the horrific assault to police the same day. Abdulla was identified through CCTV footage and a DNA match before being arrested on 12 February 2023.
Judge Commends Police Work
On 27 March, the judge praised detectives for their thorough investigation when sentencing Abdulla. Alongside his prison term, Abdulla will be placed on the Sex Offenders Register.
