Have you seen convicted rapist Sarbaz Najmadeen Ali?
The 28-year-old has gone on the run after standing trial for a series of sexual offences against a then 23-year-old man in Hastings last year.
Ali had been granted bail by Hove Crown Court that allowed him to leave the dock during the lunch break in his trial as long as he did not leave the building.
However, on Thursday (4 September), partway through the judge’s summing up during the trial, Ali fled from the court and disappeared. Officers have so far been unable to trace him.
The jury convicted Ali in his absence of rape, attempted rape and three counts of sexual assault. All of the offences were against the same victim.
A warrant has now been issued for the arrest of Ali, of Stockleigh Road, St Leonards, who previously worked as a barber in the town.
Ali is 5ft 7in and when he fled court he had black hair and heavy growth around his chin.
Detective Constable Julian Stokes said: “There is no evidence to suggest that Ali will commit further offences while he is at large but we need to find and arrest him as quickly as possible.
“The jury has found him guilty of these nasty offences but his victim does not have justice yet as Ali has not been punished.
“If you have seen Ali or have any information about where he could be, please contact us.”
Anyone with information should email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk, call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
