Police looking to identify key witnesses in Brighton rape investigation

A woman in her 40s reported being raped near Kings Road Arches last month

Author: Jo SymesPublished 11th Oct 2023

Police are looking to identify several key witnesses who may be able to help with an ongoing rape investigation in Brighton.

Four individuals were pictured on the beach between 5.40am and 6am on the morning of Sunday, 10 September.

The person pictured in the distance on the beach is believed to be a metal detectorist, seen walking along the seafront around the same time.

A metal detectorist was seen walking along the seafront around the same time.

If you recognise any of these people, or were around this area of the beach around a similar time, please come forward via the Sussex Police website or 101, quoting Operation Carpenter.

Police believe that they may be able to provide information after a woman in her 40s reported being raped near Kings Road Arches between 2am and 5.30am.

She is being supported by specialist officers.

Detectives are also looking to identify a man captured on CCTV at Brighton Railway Station, getting on a train to London Bridge shortly after the attack.

A thirty-six-year-old man - Ali Mozaffari, of Golders Green Road in Barnet - has already been charged with rape in connection with the incident and remanded in custody.

He is due for trial at a court to be determined on 26 February, 2024.

Detective Chief Inspector Luke Kyriakides-Yeldham said: “We are continuing to work tirelessly to find those responsible for this appalling crime and secure the justice the victim so deserves.

“Our hope is that these images jog the memories of anyone around the beach at that time. Are you one of this group pictured at the beach? Were you along the seafront with a metal detector? We want to speak to you.

“Please get in touch with us as soon as possible online or via 101, quoting Operation Carpenter.”

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