A 28-year-old Afghan national named Sultani Bakatash has been charged with the rape of two 14-year-old girls in Bolton. Greater Manchester Police received a report of the incident at a flat in Bolton on Sunday morning. Bakatash faces charges of two counts of rape of a girl under 16, one count of sexual assault, and one count of assault by penetration.
Bakatash, born on March 21, 1997, has been placed in custody and is scheduled to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court. The two girls are receiving support from specialized teams while the police investigate the details of the incident.
Chief Superintendent Helen Critchley, Bolton district commander, expressed deep concern over the report and emphasized the priority of supporting the girls and their families during this difficult time. The police are actively working on the case to ensure it progresses through the legal system smoothly and are dedicated to safeguarding young girls in Bolton and Greater Manchester.
The public is urged to refrain from speculating on the case to allow the legal process to unfold properly and protect the dignity of the girls. Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the police online or by calling 101, quoting incident number 3573 of December 6, 2025. Information can also be shared anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.