- A man has been sentenced and jailed for eight years in prison for drugging and sexually assaulting a woman on her 30th birthday.
- The incident occurred in a pub at closing time, where the perpetrator targeted vulnerable individuals.
- The victim was found unconscious by a passerby and reported the assault to the police.
Newsypeople – A man who drugged and sexually assaulted a woman on her 30th birthday after joining her group at a pub in Peckham, southeast London, was sentenced to eight years in prison, breaking down in tears during the sentencing.
Mouritala Saibou, aged 43, joined a group of strangers celebrating at a bar before accompanying them back to the victim’s apartment. After everyone else had retired for the night, Saibou administered alcohol and drugs to the victim before committing the assault.
In a powerful victim impact statement, the victim expressed the profound impact the assault had on her identity, stating that she mourns the loss of her identity daily.
Saibou is also under investigation for another offense, although he has not been charged for it yet.
During the trial, prosecutor Paul Douglass described the offense as calculated and predatory. He highlighted the victim’s account of Saibou’s presence at the pub, suggesting he targeted vulnerable individuals. The defense argued over the extent of the victim’s vulnerability and whether the substances Saibou provided significantly impaired her ability to resist.
Judge Benedict Kelleher emphasized the severity of the crime, noting that the assault occurred on the victim’s birthday, which would forever tarnish what should have been a joyous occasion. Despite some speculation about Saibou’s intentions, the judge concluded that the evidence clearly showed his desire for a sexual encounter, leading to the decision for an immediate custodial sentence.
Saibou, residing at 350 Sidda House, Croydon, was convicted on charges of rape and sexual assault. As he was led away to serve his sentence, he was seen wiping away tears, receiving a tissue pack from the court clerk.
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