Two teenage asylum seekers from Afghanistan have been sentenced to lengthy terms in the United Kingdom after admitting to the rape of a 15-year-old girl in a local park, highlighting ongoing concerns about youth-targeted sexual violence.

Incident Overview

The incident occurred on May 10, 2025, in Leamington, Warwickshire, when the victim was with friends. According to Warwickshire Police, Jan Jahanzeb and Israr Niazal, both 17 at the time, approached the teenager and eventually led her to Newbold Comyn Park, where the attack took place.

Following the assault, the victim bravely flagged down a passerby who contacted local police, initiating a swift investigation.

Investigation and Arrest

Warwickshire Police detectives used CCTV footage and photographs the victim had taken earlier that day to identify and locate the perpetrators. Both suspects were arrested and charged with rape, later appearing in Coventry Youth Court, where they admitted to the offense.

Sentencing Details

At a sentencing hearing at Warwick Crown Court, reporting restrictions were lifted to reveal the identities of the offenders. Both Jahanzeb and Niazal were confirmed to be Afghan asylum seekers.

• Jan Jahanzeb received a sentence of 10 years and eight months.
• Israr Niazal was sentenced to nine years and 10 months.

Both will start their terms in a Young Offenders’ Institution before eventual transfer to adult prison facilities. They were also placed on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life and issued indefinite restraining orders.

Law Enforcement Response

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Hobbs praised the victim for her courage and commended the specially trained officers who supported her throughout the investigation. He stated:

“This was a hugely traumatic incident, and I can’t speak highly enough of the victim for the bravery she has shown. The length of the sentences reflects the severity of the crime and the need to protect the public.”

DCI Hobbs emphasized that the investigation was handled sensitively, with a focus on victim support, and that it serves as reassurance for other victims of sexual violence:

“We will always investigate thoroughly and sensitively, and do everything in our power to bring offenders to justice.”

Broader Context

This case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by authorities in the U.K. in addressing sexual violence against minors. It also underscores the importance of specialized investigative units, timely reporting by victims, and community awareness to prevent such crimes and ensure justice is served.