Rapist jailed for life after attacks in Manchester’s Gay Village
– 2 min read
A man described by the judge as “calculating and insidious” has been sentenced to life imprisonment for a series of predatory sexual assaults committed in Manchester’s Gay Village.
Sid Ali Djelid, 48, also known as Mourad Malki, was convicted of five rapes against three victims - two men and one woman - following a five-week trial at Manchester Crown Court. The attacks took place between February and July 2024, with Djelid targeting intoxicated individuals enjoying nights out around Canal Street.
Judge Timothy Gilbart imposed a life sentence with a minimum term of 16 years, noting Djelid’s deliberate and premeditated behaviour. “You were a man living in the margins and shadows of society,” the judge said. “You came into the city centre for the specific purpose of finding victims. You watched people go by to identify those who were vulnerable.”
The court heard how Djelid would approach lone revellers under the guise of offering help, before leading them to secluded areas where he raped them and stole their belongings, including mobile phones, jewellery, and bank cards. He later used the stolen cards to make fraudulent purchases.
One victim, a woman who had been out with friends, described the devastating impact of the attack in a statement: “After the attack, I was in a lot of physical pain and I feel that my identity was taken from me. I did not know who I was any more.” She revealed she now self-medicates with alcohol to cope with the trauma.
Senior Investigating Officer Paul Davies of Greater Manchester Police praised the bravery of the victims who came forward. “Being drunk is not a crime,” he said. “Everyone who visits the city centre should feel safe. Such predatory behaviour has no place in Greater Manchester.”
Rebekah Tomlinson, District Crown Prosecutor for CPS North West, added: “Canal Street holds a special place in the heritage of Manchester and the LGBT community. Malki’s crimes will doubtless leave a lasting impact on the victims.”
Djelid, an Algerian national, will be eligible for deportation upon completion of his sentence. He continues to deny the offences and has shown no remorse.
