Alfred Licaj escaped justice for nine years until arrested for immigration offences

An Albanian national who raped a Japanese student in Kilburn nine years ago was finally caught when he was arrested for immigration offences.

Last week, Alfred Licaj, 24, from Hackney, was jailed for seven years for the brutal attack which took place at an address in Chatsworth Road, in July 2004.

Harrow Crown Court heard the 24-year-old had met his victim in Finchley and took her to a pub nearby.

She had only been in the country for five days at the time and left the pub with Licaj after accepting his offer to teach her English.

He said he would take her sight-seeing but instead called a friend and took her back to the address where he raped her.

The victim was so traumatised she dropped her studies and returned to her homeland.

Detectives obtained DNA profile of the rapist but nothing on their database matched until Licaj was arrested for immigration matters.

As is normal practice, his DNA was taken and entered into the DNA national database.

He was convicted at a second trial after the jury were unable to reach a decision at an earlier hearing.

PC Catriona Barclay-Langridge, investigating officer, said: “Alfred Licaj knowingly took advantage of a vulnerable young woman who was alone in a foreign country. He deliberately sought to exploit the situation she was in and breach the trust she had placed in him.

“She remains deeply traumatised and for her, the years have not eased the distress she feels. I hope Licaj’s conviction will help bring a measure of comfort to her and it is testament to her bravery in returning to this country twice to give evidence, that justice has been served.

“Licaj’s conviction and sentencing sends out a clear message to all perpetrators - the passage of time no longer provides a means to escape. You will be held accountable for your actions.”

Licaj will be deported to Albania upon his release from prison.

The court heard he is believed to be older than the age he claims to be.