Dewan Gazi

On the night of 28 July 2024, shortly after midnight, a woman was walking home in Middleton, Greater Manchester, following a social evening with friends. She was suddenly confronted by Dewan Gazi, a 44-year-old man from Croxdale Walk in Blackley, who grabbed her by the arms and began touching her over her clothes in a sexual manner. The victim, fearing for her safety, shouted for help and punched Gazi, but he persisted, pulling at her shorts and pushing her into nearby bushes behind a low metal barrier, causing her significant pain and injury to her leg.

The assault was interrupted when a man and woman from a nearby address heard the commotion and intervened. They found Gazi holding the victim on the pavement and questioned him. Gazi falsely claimed he was providing help before running away. The man chased Gazi down the street, while the couple assisted the victim, who was left with pain, bruising, and soreness to her fist from defending herself. She was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.

Greater Manchester Police swiftly investigated the incident. CCTV footage revealed Gazi's vehicle in the area at the time, which was later seized. Additional footage from a local takeaway where Gazi worked showed him watching the victim walk past, then running to his car to follow her before the attack. This evidence indicated a premeditated assault, as Gazi had identified the victim as vulnerable and stalked her for his own sexual gratification.

Gazi was arrested and charged by officers from Rochdale CID. At Manchester Crown Court, he was found guilty of two counts of sexual assault and one count of section 47 assault. Despite providing multiple inconsistent accounts during his interview and trial, the jury saw through his lies. The judge commended the intervening residents for their 'neighbourhood spirit' and bravery, awarding them recognition from Greater Manchester Police.

Detective Constable Russ Clarke from GMP’s Rochdale district stated: “Gazi identified his victim as vulnerable, and made the decision to stalk and attack her for his own sexual gratification. This was a premeditated attack... It is clear from his predatory actions that he poses a significant danger to women, as was also recognised by the judge and probation. Gazi has shown no remorse and taken no responsibility for his actions.” The victim demonstrated remarkable strength by testifying in court, contributing to Gazi's conviction and ensuring protection for others from his behaviour.