Monday, 30 November 2009

Sex Predator Pounces Outside 02 Arena


A predatory rapist, who targeted his young white victim amongst crowds of people leaving the landmark O2 Arena, was caged for six years after leading his terrified victim to nearby waste ground and attacking her.

Kwaku Acheampong, 26, of Burrage Road, Plumstead, was captured on CCTV prowling the huge venue’s main exit in search of a woman to rape.

He pleaded guilty at Woolwich Crown Court to raping the 21 year-old woman in the early hours of April 26 near North Greenwich Underground Station.

An investigation was launched by Greenwich Sapphire Unit – which specializes in sex crime – and Acheampong was arrested on May 6, with forensic evidence proving he was the rapist.

Detective Constable James Coldham of Greenwich Sapphire Unit said: "This was a very calculated offence.

“Acheampong was a predatory rapist. I have no doubt that he planned to arrive at closing time when he knew there would be lots of women leaving the venue.

"He waited until he spotted a victim, someone on her own who was trying to contact her friends.

“The CCTV footage completely disproved Acheampong's account of events. On the footage, we can see him arriving and hanging around, looking for a woman on her own.

Initially Acheampong said he went to a party inside the 02 and met the victim there and she consented to a sexual encounter.

"However, thanks to CCTV footage taken from outside the venue and from buses, officers were able to trace every move from the time he arrived at the venue to his return home.

“When he realised the evidence against him, Acheampong changed his plea to guilty. 


"There may be other women who have not yet found the courage to contact police to report similar offences. I would encourage them to come to police and reassure them that they will receive full support from dedicated Sapphire officers."

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