A 23-year-old student police officer has been charged with rape, kidnap, strangulation, sexual assault, theft of a mobile phone, and dangerous driving. Mohammad Hassan, serving with Greater Manchester Police, was arrested on Saturday on the M62 motorway in West Yorkshire after a police pursuit that began with a 999 call from the Manchester area.
A woman, who was allegedly heard in distress in Hassan's vehicle during the call, was "safeguarded at the scene," police stated. Prosecutors outlined the case at Stockport Magistrates' Court, alleging that Hassan, who was off-duty at the time, waited for the woman to finish work.
According to the prosecution, Hassan then allegedly approached the woman, placed his arm around her neck, and bundled her into his car. He is accused of driving to an area of Manchester where he allegedly sexually assaulted and raped her before driving away at speeds reaching 125mph. The alleged offenses all took place on August 8.
Hassan, of Failsworth, Oldham, appeared in court dressed in a grey tracksuit. He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth, and address. No pleas were entered during the hearing. District Judge James Hulse ordered Hassan to be remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear next at Manchester Crown Court on September 15.
Greater Manchester Police have suspended Hassan and described him as being of Asian-Pakistani ethnicity. The alleged victim, who is in her twenties, is receiving support from specialist officers and services.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Dexter stated that GMP detectives have been working to ensure charges were brought in the case. "The victim is our priority, and we are ensuring she continues to receive specialist support," Dexter said. "Criminal proceedings must now take its course without interference."
He added that the incident was "deeply concerning and disturbing" and that the force was committed to working with the Crown Prosecution Service to bring the case to court swiftly. The matter has also been referred by GMP to the Independent Office for Police Conduct.