Brighton man jailed for raping vulnerable woman

Sulieman Bamyahan, 58, unemployed, now of Lustrells Vale, Saltdean, was sentenced at Hove Crown Court last week, having been convicted earlier the same day (March 2).

On the night of May 22/23 in 2014, Bamhayan - who is also known locally as ‘Solo’ - was with the 21-year-old victim who has learning difficulties,

Police said he had supplied her with a large quantity of alcohol at a flat where he then lived in Western Road.

She passed out and awoke the next morning with her clothing dishevelled and no memory of what had happened to her, according to police.

Bamhayan was arrested and claimed not to know if he had sex with her or not, but forensic tests confirmed that sexual intercourse had taken place.

During the trial he maintained that any sexual activity would have been consensual but the jury found him guilty.

In sentencing Judge David Rennie described Bamhayan’s actions as ‘an appalling breach of trust on a woman in the most vulnerable of states’.

He added that Bamhayan had shown ‘contempt for her’ during the trial.

Bamyahan will also be subject to sex offenders registration for life on his release.

Detective Constable Stewart Cameron of the Brighton Safeguarding Investigation Unit said: “The victim in this case is especially vulnerable, but with alcohol given to her in the quantities of that night by Bamhayan she had no way of looking after herself, and he knew full well of her vulnerabilities. Despite this he took advantage of her whilst she was unconscious.

“The complex and sensitive nature of this investigation, requiring support and understanding for the victim throughout, have meant it has taken nearly three years to get to court. The victim has been very brave and we have with partner agencies ensured she has been, and will continue to be, supported.”