Man charged after 'woman raped in London park'

A man has been charged after a woman was allegedly raped in a park in north-west London, the Metropolitan Police has said.

Officers were called around 5pm on Saturday following reports of a woman being raped in Byron Park on Friday evening.

The woman is currently being supported by specialist officers, the force has confirmed.

A 40-year-old man, Anjan Ganesalingham, of no fixed address, was later arrested in the Harrow area of London on Saturday on suspicion of rape.

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The force subsequently charged the man with two counts of rape.

He appeared at Willesden Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

Detective Inspector Mitesh Mujii, of the Met’s North West Command Unit, said: “We are committed to tackling the scourge of sexual violence against women and girls.

“This was an isolated incident, but we are aware of the concern that it will cause in our local community.

“The woman who bravely reported this incident to us is being supported by specialist officers.

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“We are increasing patrols in Byron Park and the surrounding area in response to this incident.

“I would urge anyone with concerns to speak to our officers.”

Ganesalingham was remanded in custody and will appear at Harrow Crown Court on Monday, June 1.

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