A man has been charged with raping a woman on the beach in Brighton, police said today (Monday 18 May).
Sussex Police said: “A 35-year-old man has been charged with the rape of a woman on Brighton seafront.
“On Monday 4 May, police received a report that a 21-year-old woman had been raped at around 2am the previous morning (Sunday 3 May) on the beach opposite the Grand hotel.
“An investigation was launched and, on Wednesday (14 May), a man was arrested on suspicion of rape and held in police custody.
“Bilal Alkadour, 35, a Syrian national, of Cromwell Road, Newark-on-Trent, Nottinghamshire, has now been charged with sexual assault, assault by penetration and rape of a woman aged 16 years or over.
“He appeared at Brighton Magistrates’ Court on Saturday (16 May) and was remanded in custody to appear at Lewes Crown Court on Monday 15 June.”
Chief Superintendent Adam Hays said: “Specialist detectives have been working tirelessly since this report was received to identify a suspect and gather any available evidence.
“I can confirm we are not currently looking for anybody else in connection with this investigation.
“The victim is being supported by our officers and this will continue as we look ahead to court proceedings.
“I would like to thank her for the courage she has shown in reporting this matter and assisting with our inquiries.
“I know this incident will be concerning to the public and we will continue to conduct round the clock patrols on the seafront while working with our partners to protect the public and safeguard vulnerable people.”
