A sexual predator who raped a child under 13 and attempted to assault another victim using a fake gun has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 14 years. Navroop Singh, 24, carried out his attacks in two west London parks within ten days last October.
Singh raped the young girl in Hayes End Park, Hillingdon, on October 23, 2024, after attempting to rape a woman in her twenties in Southall Park, Ealing, on October 13. He was convicted following a four-day trial at Isleworth Crown Court.
The Metropolitan Police tracked down Singh through forensic evidence, extensive CCTV analysis, and witness accounts. Officers immediately linked the two attacks and arrested him at his Mellow Lane East home on October 27.
First Attack in Southall Park
Singh’s crime spree began in the early hours of October 13 when he sat on a bench in Southall Park waiting for a potential victim. He carried an imitation firearm he had ordered and assembled specifically for the attack.
He was carrying an imitation firearm, which he had ordered and assembled, and used to threaten the victim while he attempted to rape her,” police confirmed. The woman in her twenties managed to escape the attack.
By chance, the victim encountered two off-duty police officers near the park gates who accompanied her to the nearest police station. Her immediate reporting triggered a major investigation by specialist detectives.
Child Victim in Hayes End Park
While the investigation into the Southall Park attack was ongoing, Singh struck again on October 23. He raped a girl under 13 in Hayes End Park, located in Hillingdon.
Officers immediately made a link between the offences,” the Metropolitan Police stated. The similar modus operandi and geographical proximity of the attacks pointed to a single perpetrator.
The force deployed increased resources to the investigation following the second attack. Specialist officers provided support to both victims throughout the investigation and court proceedings.
Extensive Police Investigation
Detectives conducted an intensive investigation to identify Singh following the first attack. Officers trawled through hours of CCTV footage from around Southall Park and surrounding areas.
Using the increased resources which were made available, officers secured additional forensic evidence,” police explained. The forensic analysis proved crucial in linking Singh to both crimes.
The investigation team traced Singh to within a few doors of his home address. Officers delivered leaflets appealing for witnesses and conducted increased patrols in the area before making the arrest.
Court Proceedings and Conviction
Singh faced five charges at Isleworth Crown Court during his May trial. He was found guilty on Thursday, May 8, of attempted rape and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence.
He had previously pleaded guilty to three additional charges: possession of an imitation firearm with intent, rape of a girl under 13, and assault of a girl under 13 by penetration.
Judge’s sentencing reflected the severity of Singh’s predatory behavior. The life sentence with a 14-year minimum term ensures he will remain behind bars for a significant period.
Police Response and Prevention
Acting Chief Superintendent Sean Lynch, who leads policing in West Area, praised the victims’ courage in reporting the attacks. He emphasized the importance of their testimony in securing the conviction.
I would like to commend the strength of the victim-survivors and their families and thank them for their unwavering bravery in reporting these awful incidents to us,” Lynch said yesterday.
He added: “Today’s conviction is testament to the officers’ thorough investigation, which has identified a violent sexual offender and undoubtedly prevented further harm.
Violence Against Women Priority
The Metropolitan Police highlighted this case as part of their ongoing efforts to combat violence against women and girls. The force has increased specialist teams dedicated to investigating sexual offences.
“We are continuing to prioritise tackling violence against women and girls with our increased specialist teams,” Lynch confirmed. The successful prosecution demonstrates the effectiveness of these enhanced resources.
The case also showcases improved coordination between different police units. The quick identification of links between the two attacks enabled officers to prevent further offenses.
Community Reassurance
Lynch addressed community concerns following the attacks, emphasizing that Singh’s imprisonment should provide reassurance to local residents. The parks where the attacks occurred serve communities in Hillingdon and Ealing.
“I hope that the community will find reassurance in our action to put this predator behind bars,” Lynch stated. Both parks have seen increased police patrols since the incidents.
Hayes End Park, located on Kingsway in Hayes, and Southall Park are popular community spaces. The attacks had caused significant concern among local residents and park users.
Support for Victims
Throughout the investigation and trial, specialist officers provided dedicated support to both victims. The Metropolitan Police’s approach reflects improved handling of sexual assault cases.
The successful prosecution relied heavily on the victims’ testimony and their willingness to participate in the criminal justice process. Their cooperation proved essential in securing Singh’s conviction.
Police continue to encourage victims of sexual assault to come forward, emphasizing the support available throughout investigations and court proceedings.
Sentencing Impact
Singh’s life sentence sends a strong message about the seriousness with which courts treat sexual offences against women and children. The 14-year minimum term reflects the predatory nature of his crimes.
The case demonstrates effective police work in quickly identifying and apprehending a dangerous sexual predator. Singh’s arrest just four days after the second attack prevented further victims.
His conviction adds to successful prosecutions of sexual offenders in London as police continue prioritizing violence against women and girls.
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