A man has been sentenced to 22 years after he raped a woman and threatened her with a gun in Heaton Mersey Park.

Usama Al-Sari, 28, of Moorton Avenue in Manchester, will serve 14 years in prison and eight on licence after he pleaded guilty a string of offences including rape, making threat to kill, and possession of a Class B drug.

The 'shocking' incident took place on 9 September 2025 - the victim described how she was walking in the park when she was approached by Al-Sari, who forced her to come with him while threatening her with what she believed was a firearm.

Al-Sari raped her, until the victim managed to escape and run to safety.

She reported the incident to the police, who found and arrested Al-Sari within an hour of the report being made.

Police also found the firearm during a subsequent search of the park, which was discovered to be 'non-viable'.

The victim thanked Greater Manchester Police (GMP) "for their care, professionalism, and safeguarding-led approach".

"Being supported and treated with dignity made a huge difference, and I hope this case encourages all institutions to reflect on how they support victims of serious violence", she said.

Detective Constable Heather Parke, the officer in the case, added: "Following this sentencing I hope this outcome provides reassurance to the victim and our wider communities.

"I want to commend the victim for her courage during this investigation. Coming forward and reporting this incident enabled our officers to ensure the offender saw justice and the victim was able to receive the right support.

"This is a shocking and incredibly rare incident and will have an immeasurable impact on the victim. We understand this incident is deeply concerning, and I want to reassure our communities that incidents of this nature are treated with the highest priority.

"Our commitment is to protect victims, provide the right care and support and pursue justice and we encourage any victims to come forward and report."

GMP also encouraged victims of sexual assault not to suffer in silence.

As well as the police, other support agencies include:

• Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, which provides support for anybody who has been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer medical examinations, practical support, and counselling. Access support 24/7 on 0161 276 6515.
• Greater Manchester Rape Crisis, a counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email [email protected]
• Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.