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Prestwich man jailed for seven years for rape and sexual assault

Sunday, 26 April 2026 17:15

By David Murphy

Vijay Chawla, 67, of Rectory Lane, Bury

A Bury man has been jailed for seven years after being found guilty of raping and sexually assaulting a woman in Manchester.

Vijay Chawla, 67, of Rectory Lane, Bury, was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court on Friday 24 April 2026.

Greater Manchester Police said Chawla was found guilty of rape and sexual assault against the same victim after a trial in January 2026.

The offences followed a report made to police by a 72 year old woman on Saturday 18 March 2023.

GMP said the woman reported she had been raped the night before at an address in Manchester.

Officers said Chawla was arrested the same day and later released while further enquiries were carried out.

Detective Sergeant Sam Cullen, of GMP Criminal Investigations Department, said: “Firstly I would like to thank the victim in his horrifying incident to come forward and report their abuse to us, allowing us to conduct a thorough investigation."

He added: “I commend the victim in this case for supporting our investigation, which has resulted in today’s sentence and sees justice served against Chawla.

“Our officers will provide support, conduct thorough investigations, and take firm action against offenders. Your allegations will be taken seriously, and you will be treated with dignity and respect."

GMP said anyone who has been raped or sexually assaulted can report it to police by calling 101 or using the live chat service on the force website.

Reports can also be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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