Indian-origin man sentenced to 34 years for kidnapping, torturing and raping woman in London

An Indian-origin man has been sentenced to 34 years in prison in the United Kingdom after being convicted of kidnapping, torturing and raping a young woman in a case described by investigators as exceptionally brutal.

Rape and kidnapping

Gagandeep Singh, 34, was found guilty in February at Isleworth Crown Court of two counts of rape, kidnap, false imprisonment and causing grievous bodily harm with intent. On Friday, the court handed him a 34-year sentence, consisting of 28 years in custody followed by a six-year extended licence period with strict conditions.

Under the terms of the sentence, Singh will not be eligible for parole until he has served at least 18 years, equivalent to two-thirds of the custodial term.

The victim endured prolonged abuse and torture

During the trial, jurors heard that the 24-year-old victim was taken to a property in Hanwell, west London, where she endured prolonged abuse and torture. The ordeal began after she became suspicious when asked to transport a suitcase containing unknown items from Thailand to the UK in June 2024.

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After refusing, she arrived at Birmingham Airport and was allegedly forced into a vehicle by masked men before being driven to London.

The court heard that Singh raped the woman on two occasions and subjected her to more than a day of violence. According to evidence presented during the trial, she was "punched in the face, beaten, stripped, whipped, burnt and raped" before eventually being released. She was also threatened and warned not to report the crimes.

Detective Constable Seetara Abdul, who led the investigation for the Metropolitan Police's North West Rape and Serious Sexual Offences Unit, praised the victim's courage.

"The brutality of what the victim in this case faced is unimaginable," she said.

"She has shown immense bravery in coming forward and helping us ensure her attacker faces justice. The cruel level of control left her fearing for her life."

Police said the victim was deeply traumatised and initially unwilling to disclose the full details of what had happened. Investigators noted that threats were made in an attempt to stop her from cooperating with authorities.

"Threats were made to try and silence her, but the support of her mum and the diligent care shown by the officers investigating her case meant we were able to apprehend and charge an extremely dangerous individual," said DC Abdul.