Mourad Malki

Mourad Malki, aged 48 and also known as Sid Ali Djelid, targeted lone individuals in Manchester's Canal Street, the city's renowned 'gay village', between 17 February and 18 July 2024. Described as a calculating predator, Malki preyed on people who appeared vulnerable after a night out involving alcohol consumption, isolating them before subjecting them to brutal sexual assaults. None of the victims knew Malki prior to the attacks, and he fled each scene with their valuables, including phones and other items, which he later attempted to use for fraudulent purchases in some instances.

The attacks were swift and opportunistic, with Malki positioning himself as a helpful figure in one case by offering to assist a male victim in finding his hotel. CCTV footage recovered from locations near the crime scenes captured Malki befriending victims and leading them to secluded areas, providing crucial evidence in the investigation. Forensic analysis further linked him to the offences. Greater Manchester Police's Major Incident Team identified Malki through this combination of evidence, leading to his arrest on 21 July 2024. During his police interview, he made no comment.

Malki pleaded not guilty to the five counts of rape but admitted to four counts of theft and one count of fraud, which spared the victims additional testimony on those charges. The trial took place at Manchester Crown Court, where on 24 July 2025, he was convicted of raping two men and one woman. Rebekah Tomlinson, District Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West, highlighted the insidious nature of Malki's crimes, stating: “Malki is a serial sex offender who posed serious danger to both men and women – carrying out his horrifying crimes in one of the most celebrated and historic nightlife hotspots in the country. The way he targeted lone individuals who he believed would be vulnerable was both calculating and insidious.”

Senior Investigating Officer Paul Davies from Greater Manchester Police commended the victims' courage, noting: “Firstly, I would like to commend all the victims who came forward. Without them, Djelid may not have been caught and could still be prowling the streets. Being drunk is not a crime. Everybody who visits the city centre should feel safe - safe in the knowledge that they can go and enjoy themselves without fear of being attacked.” The convictions underscore the police commitment to investigating such predatory behaviour fully, with specialist support for victims throughout the process. Malki will be sentenced at a later date, ensuring this dangerous individual is held accountable for his actions that violated the safety of Manchester's vibrant nightlife community.