24 Hours in Police Custody spotlights consent as survivors speak out

A sexual predator who violently raped two men he met through dating app Grindr will feature on the latest episode of 24 Hours in Police Custody.

Two victims came forward independently of one another to report attacks by Mohammed Altaher at his home address in Bedford in August and September 2019 respectively.

The episode raises the importance of consent, and the fact that it can be withdrawn at any time.

In both cases Altaher became aggressive, ignored pleas to stop and carried out his attacks.

The episode also spotlights the work carried out by detectives from Bedfordshire Police’s Rape and Serious Sexual Offences (RASSO) team as they put together a thorough investigation into 38-year-old Altaher which resulted in him being sentenced to 10 years.

Detective Constable Kevin Cheese, from the RASSO team, said: “These were especially horrific incidents which left the victims feeling scared.

“When it comes to sexual activity consent is crucial. Consent for sexual activity can be withdrawn at any time, and regardless if you initially consented to sex, it is still rape if consent is withdrawn and they continue.

“In this case, Altaher showed no care or compassion for the victims’ wishes, despite pleas to stop, and continued for his own sexual gratification.

“There is undoubtedly under reporting when it comes to male victims of sexual violence, as well as victims in the LGBT+ community, and we hope this episode helps demonstrate to victims that they will be believed.

“I want to thank both survivors in this case for coming forward and getting a dangerous predator like Altaher off the streets.

“We will always be on the side of victims, regardless of gender, background or sexual orientation, and we will relentlessly pursue perpetrators of such crimes.

“It is never too late to come forward and report something that has happened to you.”

If you have been affected by any the latest episodes of 24 Hours in Police custody, then please reach out for support.

If you have been a victim, you can call 101 or report online.

The Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership lists a range of support services for those who have suffered sexual violence and abuse, including specialist services for boys and men as well as the LGBT+ community.

For more information visit the Bedfordshire Domestic Abuse Partnership website.

24 Hours in Police Custody is due to air on Channel 4 at 9pm on Sunday (17 December).