Police issue strong message after beach sex attacker jailed

That is the message from a Dorset Police inspector after a man was jailed for indecently assaulting two women in the water at Bournemouth beach.

As reported, Kuku Machhal was sentenced to 18 months' imprisonment at Portsmouth Crown Court on Monday.

Machhal, 31 and of Dagmar Road, Southall, previously pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault.

The court heard the separate incidents took place on the same day in July last year and both victims were strangers to the defendant.

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Neighbourhood Inspector Darren Harris, of Bournemouth police, told the Daily Echo: “Through the detailed investigative work of officers, we were able to gather evidence to bring Machhal before the court to face the consequences of his actions.

“As a force, we take reports of sexual offences very seriously and will do everything we can, working with partners across the criminal justice system, to bring offenders to justice.

"Throughout an investigation we will provide extensive support to victims and will continue to work with those people affected to better understand the impact on them and how we can improve our response."

Kuku Machhal

Inspector Harris said Dorset Police would like to reassure residents and visitors that the force strengthened its working practices with partner agencies over the summer to step up resources in town centres.

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"Local officers will be continuing to conduct high-visibility patrols in the area of the beach now and throughout the upcoming summer months," said Inspector Harris.

“It is important for people to remember that we are here for them. During the summer period last year, seafront and town rangers, who patrol the beaches and the town centre area of Bournemouth, as well as security personnel and police officers, all stepped up their patrol operations as part of the summer response plan.

"They were on hand to provide immediate help and support to anyone with safety concerns, including contacting emergency services and helping to find lost friends or family. RNLI lifeguards and staff could also be approached, with their beach towers serving as a safe place to address concerns or seek further help.

“Anyone who has been the victim of a sexual assault, whether recently or in the past, is encouraged to contact Dorset Police online from www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online or by telephone to 101.

"In an emergency always call 999. Not everyone will wish to involve the police at first, but if that is the case please use the services provided anonymously by The Shores at 0800 970 9954 or www.the-shores.org.uk.”

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