A young man who arrived in the UK illegally has been sentenced to eight years in prison after admitting to sexually assaulting and raping a woman in York.
Eid Anwar Fathi Najjar, 21, crossed the English Channel from Egypt and targeted the victim after she had been out drinking with friends, York Crown Court heard.
Victim Attacked After Night Out
The incident unfolded in the early hours after the woman became separated from her friends.
She had been enjoying a night out and had consumed several drinks, leaving her in what witnesses described as a “zombie-like state.”
Najjar seized the opportunity to approach her at the Vudu Lounge nightclub.
Assault Spreads Across York Streets
Court details reveal that Najjar led the woman outside the club, where he sexually assaulted her, before taking her to the historic Shambles Market and committing further sexual assault.
CCTV footage captured him holding and kissing the victim while outside the venue.
A bouncer tried to intervene, warning Najjar to keep his distance, but the attack continued once the doorman’s attention shifted.
Victim Found Distressed by Tourists
After the assault, the half-naked victim wandered the streets in distress.
Two tourists came across her and attempted to help her get home, eventually calling police when they were unable to escort her inside safely.
Tests conducted the following day confirmed the rape, even though the victim had no memory of the events.
Guilty Plea Comes at Last Minute
Najjar initially denied both rape and sexual assault, giving false information to the police, including a fake name and date of birth.
He later admitted to the offences just days before his trial, pleading guilty in November.
A previous court hearing described him as a “failed asylum seeker” with no right to remain in the UK.
Defence Highlights Fear of Deportation
During sentencing, Najjar’s lawyer said the defendant was terrified of being sent back to Egypt.
He reportedly told his barrister, “I deserve punishment in this country, but please don’t send me back.”
Judge Sean Morris, the Recorder of York, dismissed any mitigating argument, stating that “no man could reasonably believe she was capable of consenting.”
Victim’s Statement Reveals Lasting Trauma
A statement from the victim described the long-term emotional impact of the attack.
She spoke of feeling overwhelmed and anxious, struggling to enjoy nights out, and suffering from frequent nightmares.
“I’ve been very stressful and a lot more anxious when I’m out in public,” she said, highlighting how deeply the assault affected her daily life.
Sentence and Future Consequences
Najjar will serve two-thirds of his eight-year sentence in prison, after which he will be released on licence.
Following his release, deportation to Egypt will be considered.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the lasting impact sexual assault can have on victims and the seriousness with which the courts treat such crimes.
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