Victim praised by police chief
A police chief has spoken of the attack’s impact on the wider community.
In the wake of the verdict, Chief Superintendent Sarah Pitt, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was a despicable act which caused a great deal of upset and distress to both the victim and the local community as a whole.
“Rasoolli and Abdulla both insisted their innocence throughout this case, but they have been convicted of their crimes and must now face the consequences of their selfish actions.
“Rape is a horrific crime that has a devastating effect on victims and a corrosive impact on society. We will leave no stone unturned when pursuing perpetrators to ensure they are brought to justice.
“I am pleased that these two men are now set to face a significant amount of time behind bars and are unable to carry out any more appalling acts of this kind.
“I would like to praise the victim for her bravery throughout this investigation, as well as the team of detectives who worked incredibly hard to secure these convictions.
“There can be no doubt whatsoever that the streets of Sunderland are a safer place without Rasoolli and Abdulla.”
As inquiries were launched and extra patrols were drafted in, she pledged the force’s priority was to protect and bring justice.