Yesterday (Monday 19 October 2026) a man has been sentenced at Bolton Crown Court following a campaign of rape and controlling and coercive behaviour against three different women between 2018 and 2025.

Amar Manzoor (28/10/1983) of Bolton has been sentenced to 22 years after a jury found him guilty on 12 counts, including:

• Rape x3
• Controlling and coercive behaviour x2
• Assault x3
• Non-fatal strangulation x1
• Perverting the course of justice x2
• Stalking x1

The first survivor met Manzoor in July 2018 and over a prolonged period, she was subjected to sustained abuse, including rape, assaults and controlling coercive behaviour.

The second survivor met Manzoor in September 2023, where he carried out a course of behaviour amounting to stalking, causing serious alarm and distress to the victim. A third woman was later involved with Manzoor and subjected to a range of abusive behaviours during the time she knew Manzoor, including rape, assaults, and CCB.

Whilst in custody following an arrest for non-fatal strangulation in November 2025, Manzoor made repeated attempts to contact the third victim from prison. He tried to coerce her to withdraw her statement and also attempted to force her to create false contact details in an effort to avoid detection. The survivor bravely disclosed this to police, and we were able to secure further charges against him for perverting the course of justice.

One survivor shared following sentencing: ”I have had to change so much in order to protect myself. So much so, that I don’t even recognise myself anymore…. I didn’t live with you, I tried to survive, and now I am merely existing.”

Another added: ”I know I am a much stronger person now… but I’m not completely healed, and I don’t believe I ever really will be”.

DC Rachel McMahon from our Criminal Investigation Department said: “This has been a complex investigation with a number of victims involved. I’m immensely proud of all three women and I would like to commend their continued bravery throughout this investigation and the court proceedings.

“Manzoor manipulated each of these women, took advantage of them and subjected them each to numerous forms of domestic and sexual abuse.

“I appreciate it hasn’t been easy for any of them, but their assistance has been invaluable, and despite moments of uncertainty, their patience and courage led to a strong outcome and Manzoor behind bars.

“Protecting our communities is a key priority, and I hope this sentencing highlights the lengths our officers will work to ensure justice is served for those who engage such behaviour.

“Domestic abuse can take many forms and I urge anyone who may be seeing the signs to please come forward and report. You will always be taken seriously, and treated with care.”

Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via 101 or through the Live Chat function on the website, www.gmp.police.uk. Reports can also be made anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Remember – if in doubt, report it.

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

– Saint Mary’s Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

– Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk

– Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.