ABLOLON OKBAZGE SHOCKS WIGAN WITH BRUTAL CRIME IN BAR AREA

In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the town of Wigan, 27-year-old Ablolom Okbazge has been convicted and sentenced for a heinous criminal act that took place in December 2021. The incident involved a vulnerable woman who was heavily intoxicated after a night out with friends, making her an easy target for predatory behavior.

According to court proceedings, CCTV footage played a crucial role in the case, revealing that Okbazge was seen loitering around the woman as she appeared intoxicated and defenseless. Once he identified her vulnerable state, he took advantage of her situation. The footage showed him leading her away from the crowded area to a secluded staircase located behind a bar in Wigan town centre. It was there that he committed a series of grave offenses, including assault and rape, which lasted for over an hour. The court heard harrowing details of the attack, emphasizing the prolonged and deeply distressing nature of the crime.

Throughout the trial, Okbazge maintained his innocence, denying the allegations. However, the jury found him guilty after considering the evidence presented. The victim, who bravely testified about her suffering, described her ongoing emotional and psychological struggles. She stated, “Since it happened I have not been able to speak to anybody about it without breaking down. This has stopped me from trying to deal with it mentally. I have not been able to speak with my family or friends about what happened as I find it too upsetting to talk about and I feel completely ashamed.” She further revealed that the trauma has left her with severe anxiety, especially when leaving her home, and she feels that her life has been fundamentally altered by the attack.

The presiding judge condemned the crime as a ‘brutal piece of criminality,’ criticizing Okbazge for exploiting her intoxicated and vulnerable condition. The judge described the attack as prolonged and deeply unpleasant, reflecting the severity of the offense. As a result, Okbazge was sentenced to nine years in prison. The court also ordered that he serve two-thirds of his sentence before being considered for deportation, highlighting the seriousness with which the justice system viewed his actions.

Detective Constable Ray Williams from Greater Manchester Police highlighted the lasting impact of the crime on the victim and praised her courage in coming forward and reporting the incident. Her bravery was instrumental in securing the conviction. In response to this case and similar incidents, Greater Manchester Police announced plans to increase police patrols during nighttime hours, aiming to enhance safety measures, particularly for women and girls in the Wigan area.