Officers praise two victims who helped to put a rapist behind bars
Duku Miah, 49, has been jailed for 22 years
Officers have praised two victims whose bravery helped put a rapist behind bars for 22 years.
Duku Miah appeared at Newcastle Crown Court on Friday (April 14) where he was jailed for repeatedly raping two girls over a period of three years.
Newcastle Crown Court heard how the now 49-year-old had preyed on the schoolgirls, aged between four and seven, forcing them to repeat sexual acts with him.
Years later, the victims found the courage to confide in their family – police were immediately called, and an investigation launched.
Miah was subsequently arrested and later charged but continued to deny the attacks.
On October 13, 2022, he appeared before a jury who saw through his lies, and he was convicted of all five offences, including rape and sexual assault.
And on Friday, a judge sentenced Miah, of South Shields, to 22 years imprisonment with an extended licence period of two years.
He was also given an indefinite restraining order to protect both victims and has been placed sex offenders’ register for life.
The officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Constable Claire Corns, of Northumbria Police's Safeguarding department, said:
"This was an absolutely horrendous ordeal for Miah’s victims and something no child should ever have to experience. I really hope this sentence can serve as a new start for them.
“Without the victim’s bravery and strength, Miah would not be behind bars and his offending may never have been uncovered – and this is something they should be incredibly proud of themselves for.
“Miah is a vile predator who more than deserves his sentence and our communities are undoubtedly a safer place because of this.
“As a Force, protecting and supporting vulnerable victims is our top priority and we will continue to work round the clock to put offenders before the courts and ensure that no one gets away with this type of criminality.
“If you have been a victim, we’d encourage you to take that first step and come forward – you will be listened to, and you will be believed.”
To report a sexual offence, report via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of the police website or via 101.
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