Brave woman punched predator during horrific sex assault as she walked home from night out

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Sunday 30th March 2025, at 08:15hrs

Dewan Gazi, 43, of Croxdale Walk, Blackley, has been sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of two counts of sexual assault and one count of section 47 assault at Manchester Crown Court.

The verdict follows a disturbing attack on a woman returning home from a night out in Middleton.

The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Sunday, July 28, 2024. The victim was walking home when Gazi confronted her, grabbing her arms and sexually assaulting her over her clothing.

As she shouted for help and attempted to defend herself, Gazi continued his attack, pulling at her shorts and pushing her into bushes with a metal barrier, causing significant pain and bruising.

The victim’s cries for help were heard by a nearby couple, who intervened, finding Gazi holding her on the pavement.

After questioning him, he fled the scene, pursued by one of the residents. The couple then assisted the distressed victim, who was later taken to hospital for treatment.

Police investigations, including CCTV analysis, revealed Gazi’s vehicle was present in the area at the time of the assault.

Footage also showed him watching the victim walk past a takeaway where he worked, before following her in his car.

He was subsequently arrested and charged by Rochdale CID.

Detective Constable Russ Clarke of GMP’s Rochdale district condemned Gazi’s “predatory actions,” stating,

“In the early hours of Saturday 27th 2024, Gazi identified his victim as vulnerable, and made the decision to stalk and attack her for his own sexual gratification.

This was a premeditated attack of somebody making her way home after a social gathering.” He emphasized the significant danger Gazi poses to women and praised the victim’s “incredible strength and bravery” in testifying against him.

The judge also commended the “neighbourhood spirit” of the couple who intervened, and they have since received a bravery award from Greater Manchester Police for their actions.

One resident chased Gazi while in a state of undress.

In addition to the six-year prison sentence, Gazi will be subject to indefinite sex offender notification requirements and an indefinite restraining order to protect the victim.

Detective Constable Clarke added, “Gazi has shown no remorse and taken no responsibility for his actions.

He provided multiple accounts during his suspect interview in an attempt to explain the evidence that was put before him. He even provided the jury with a brand new account during the trial, in the belief that he could deceive them. They saw through his lies.”

Greater Manchester Police urge anyone with information related to similar incidents to contact them on 101 or through the Live Chat function on their website, http://www.gmp.police.uk.

Anonymous reports can also be made through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.