A predator who raped a woman in the City of London on New Year’s Day has been jailed for six years and nine months.
Awet Solomon, 24, attacked the victim as she alighted a bus on Mansell Street, near the Tower of London, and walked towards Whitechapel High Street.
He dragged her into an alleyway, beat, strangled and then subjected her to a violent sex attack.
When Solomon, who was not known to the victim, fled she contacted the police and an investigation was launched on January 1.
He was arrested, charged and remanded in custody within 36 hours of the report.
Solomon, of Bath Road, West Drayton, pleaded guilty to rape, strangulation and actual bodily harm and was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court on Tuesday.
Detective Superintendent Richard Waight, of the City of London Police, said specialist officers worked closely with the woman.
He added: “I would like to thank the victim for showing tremendous courage and strength to come forward to report such an abhorrent incident and in supporting this investigation.
“City of London Police take allegations of rape and sexual offences extremely seriously and we investigate them with the utmost sensitivity.
“We will believe you, listen and support you throughout every step of the investigation and do everything we can to bring the offender to justice.
“I would also praise all those who investigated this crime. Their diligence and hard work has contributed to making the City a safer place.”
