By Sabiu Abdullahi
A 24-year-old Nigerian national, Gift Oladele, has been handed a 17-year prison sentence in the United Kingdom after a court found him guilty of raping a 19-year-old woman in Wrexham.
The incident occurred in the early hours of September 7 last year. Oladele, who previously lived in the Manchester area and had no fixed address at the time, carried out the attack after encountering the victim in Wrexham city centre.
North Wales Police said the young woman had been returning home after spending time with friends when she met Oladele. He approached her and her friend, introduced himself, and insisted on walking her home, claiming he was going the same way.
As they moved along Mold Road, Oladele diverted her onto a secluded footpath where he attacked her.
Following the incident, he threatened the victim and warned her against reporting the matter. The case was, however, reported to the police, leading to his arrest within hours. Authorities later charged him and kept him in custody pending trial.
During proceedings at Mold Crown Court in March, Oladele denied the allegations and claimed the encounter was consensual. The jury dismissed his claim and convicted him of rape and sexual assault.
At Caernarfon Crown Court on April 30, the judge imposed a total sentence of 25 years. This includes 17 years in prison and an additional eight years on extended licence.
The court also issued an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and a lifetime restraining order to safeguard the victim.
Reacting to the judgment, Wrexham Chief Inspector Caroline Mullen-Hurst described Oladele as a “dangerous predator” who subjected the victim to a “disturbing and terrifying attack.”
“He demonstrated no remorse for his crimes after forcing her to relive the traumatic experience through a trial.
“I would like to praise the dignity and courage she has shown throughout the investigation, and for her bravery in reporting this incident to us.
“Thankfully, today’s sentence has removed Oladele from the streets, preventing any further harm to anyone else. I hope it reassures the public that North Wales Police is committed to eradicating all incidents of violence against women and girls and is working tirelessly to bring perpetrators of sexual abuse to justice.
“I would urge any victim of sexual assault to get in touch with us. You will be listened to, your report will be taken seriously and fully investigated. We are here to support you,” she added.
