Nigerian Man Receives 28-Year Sentence in UK for Prolonged Child Sexual Abuse
A 61-year-old Nigerian national, Anthony Adewale Sobogun, residing at Thistlewood Crescent in Croydon, has been handed a substantial 28-year prison term at the Inner London Crown Court. This sentencing, delivered on Wednesday, 15 April 2026, follows his conviction on 17 counts of non-recent sexual abuse offences against two young children, marking the culmination of a distressing case that spanned over a decade and a half.
Details of the Horrific Abuse and Investigation
Sobogun's criminal activities occurred during the 1990s and early 2000s, targeting victims who were known to him personally. The offences included multiple instances of sexual intercourse with a girl under the age of 13, as well as the rape of a child. In a particularly harrowing revelation, one victim-survivor disclosed that Sobogun accompanied her to an abortion clinic after she became pregnant with his child, a claim substantiated by officers who traced medical records confirming the procedure.
Metropolitan Police detectives, adopting a victim-led approach, meticulously gathered evidence, including counselling notes that detailed the cycle of sexual abuse. Sobogun was arrested in the early hours of 2 July 2025 and later charged, with the investigation emphasizing building trust with the victim-survivors to ensure their voices were heard in court.
Bravery of Victims and Police Response
Detective Constable Charlotte Lockyer, who led the case, praised the courage of the victims, stating, "The bravery of the victims in coming forward is what brought Sobogun to justice. It’s as a result of their courage in working with officers that this dangerous man has been jailed." She added that their actions have prevented further harm to society and underscored that justice can be secured regardless of when the abuse occurred.
The victims themselves shared a powerful message, noting, "Abuse like this exists in many communities, often hidden by family, fear, silence, or stigma. We want to be clear: it is never too late to come forward. If you have experienced abuse, your voice matters, and you deserve to be heard, supported, and protected." They also highlighted the importance of looking beyond appearances, as perpetrators can seem trustworthy while causing harm behind closed doors.
Enhanced Investigative Techniques and Future Commitments
The Metropolitan Police reiterated its dedication to improving victim-survivor experiences throughout investigations. In this case, officers utilized video recorded interviews (VRIs) conducted in specially designed suites, which support safer and more sensitive interactions for both adults and children. These methods not only strengthen evidence collection but also help victims feel supported.
To further enhance such efforts, the Met has undertaken a £10 million upgrade programme for VRI suites, combining advanced digital technology with a trauma-informed, victim-centred environment. This initiative aims to improve the quality and integrity of evidence while ensuring a compassionate approach to handling sensitive cases.
The victims expressed gratitude to the Metropolitan Police, particularly Detective Constable Charlotte Lockyer, prosecutor Mr. William Goss, and the Crown Prosecution Service for their careful and professional handling of the case. This outcome serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against child sexual abuse and the critical role of community awareness and law enforcement collaboration in securing justice.
