An Afghan national has been formally charged with a series of serious offences, including kidnap, rape, and sexual assault, in connection with a spate of attacks that have unsettled communities in Oxfordshire. The charges stem from incidents in the leafy market town of Wantage and the nearby area of Grove, prompting a significant police investigation and public appeal for information.
Details of the Charges and Alleged Incidents
Najeebullah Arab, aged 39, who currently resides in Grove, Oxfordshire, is accused of committing multiple offences over a short period. He has been charged with the kidnap and rape of a woman near Mably Way in Wantage on Tuesday. According to police reports, the victim, a woman in her late teens, was walking alone at approximately 11.15pm when she was approached by a stranger. The man allegedly led her to an area behind Mably Way, where he raped her before fleeing the scene on a black bicycle.
Additional Sexual Assault Charge
In a separate incident, Arab has also been charged with the sexual assault of a woman on Cane Lane in Grove on January 21. This attack is said to have occurred around 9.30pm, when a woman in her late 20s was approached by a lone man. After a brief interaction, the suspect followed her and sexually assaulted her. These charges highlight a pattern of predatory behaviour targeting vulnerable individuals in quiet, residential areas.
Ongoing Police Investigation and Public Appeal
Thames Valley Police are continuing to investigate another sexual assault reported on Oxford Lane in Wantage on January 24. While Arab was arrested on suspicion of this offence and remains under investigation, he has not been charged in connection with this specific incident at this time. The police have emphasised that their inquiries are progressing rapidly, with additional officers deployed across the area to conduct thorough investigations and provide visible reassurance patrols to the local community.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May previously commented on the case, stating, 'I would like to thank the public for their overwhelming support and the information they have already provided to us since we made a public appeal on Thursday.' He added, 'It is positive that we have now made an arrest, but I would continue to urge the public to come forward with any information that may support our investigation, as it really does help.'
Legal Proceedings and Custody
Najeebullah Arab has been remanded in police custody and is scheduled to appear at High Wycombe Magistrates' Court on Monday. The legal process will now unfold as the charges are formally presented, with the court set to determine the next steps in this high-profile case. The police are actively encouraging anyone with information related to these incidents to come forward, as it could be crucial in securing justice for the victims and ensuring public safety.
Authorities have provided specific channels for reporting information: individuals are asked to call 101 or report online, quoting reference number 43260044490. This case underscores the importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement in addressing and preventing such serious crimes in local areas.
