Two Men Convicted of Brutal Kidnap and Rape in London
After an eight-week trial at Isleworth Crown Court, Abdul Howe, 21, from Brent, was found guilty of a shocking string of crimes. The charges against him include two counts of kidnap, seven counts of rape, sexual assault by penetration, false imprisonment, possession of a bladed weapon, actual bodily harm, and perverting the course of justice.
Howe’s friend, Ajani Williams, also 21 and from Brent, was convicted of equally disturbing offences: false imprisonment, actual bodily harm, five counts of rape, and perverting the course of justice. Williams also admitted to possession with intent to supply a Class B drug.
Disturbing Crime Against Vulnerable Teen
The victim, a 17-year-old girl at the time, bravely came forward in September 2020. She told police at Lewisham station how she had been kidnapped and raped after meeting Howe on social media. The teenager was groomed and exploited as part of Howe’s County Lines drug trafficking operation, which ran from London to Ipswich.
Howe first took her to a hostel where she was battered with nunchucks and raped. He then forced her to travel to his home in Hammersmith, where Williams awaited. Over two terrifying days, the pair repeatedly raped and assaulted her.
Officers Praise Victim’s Bravery
“The offences committed by these men against a vulnerable teenage girl are abhorrent,” said Detective Constable Tony Larkin, lead investigator.
“Her account is one of the most distressing I have ever heard. These are extremely dangerous individuals and our community is safer now they are behind bars.”
“The victim’s incredible bravery, from coming forward to providing vital evidence, has secured today’s verdicts. We hope this sends a clear message: we take allegations like this seriously and will support victims every step of the way to ensure justice is done.”
Injustice Exposed
Before her release, Howe and Williams forced the victim to record a voice note falsely claiming she consented to the sex acts. This chilling detail was crucial evidence in their conviction.
Now convicted, Howe and Williams face the full force of the law for their vile crimes against a vulnerable young woman.
