Manchester 'Gay Village' rapist found guilty of series of brutal attacks

A man who preyed on vulnerable individuals in Manchester’s 'Gay Village' has been found guilty of a string of horrifying sexual assaults. Sid Ali Djelid, 48, also known by the alias Mourad Malki, was convicted at Manchester Crown Court of five counts of rape following a five-week trial.

Djelid targeted lone revellers around Canal Street between February and July 2024, choosing victims who were intoxicated and isolated. His attacks included the rape of two men and one woman, all of whom were unknown to him. Prosecutors described his behaviour as “calculating and insidious,” noting that he lay in wait for victims before assaulting them and stealing their possessions.

One victim, a woman, was bundled into a car and raped twice in a secluded area. The two male victims were led into quiet back alleys where Djelid forced himself on them. He also stole mobile phones, bank cards, and jewellery from his victims.

Senior Investigating Officer Paul Davies of Greater Manchester Police praised the bravery of the victims who came forward, stating: “Without them, Djelid may not have been caught and could still be prowling the streets. Such predatory behaviour has no place in Greater Manchester”.

Rebekah Tomlinson, District Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West, said: “Canal Street holds a special place in the heritage of Manchester and the LGBT community. Those on a night out have the right to enjoy themselves free from the fear of abuse and attack”.

Djelid, an Algerian national who had been living in Cheetham Hill, now faces a lengthy prison sentence and possible deportation. Authorities are investigating his immigration status, and Greater Manchester Police are appealing for any further victims to come forward.