Two men charged with rape after Sunny Hill Park incident, remanded in custody

Two men have been charged with rape after an early‑morning incident in Sunny Hill Park, Hendon. Metropolitan Police reported that they were dispatched to the park at 12:33 am on 7 September 2026 following a call about a sexual assault. The suspects, identified as Khanzada Afghan, 31, of Vicarage Farm Road, Hounslow, and Mohammad Nejad, 25, of Tanner Close, Colindale, were arrested at the scene. Both were taken into custody and later charged with one count of rape of a female aged 16 or over. The case moved to Willesden Magistrates' Court the following day, where a judge ordered them to remain in custody pending further proceedings.

Sunny Hill Park lies on the border of the London Borough of Barnet and the neighbouring borough of Brent. The park is a popular recreational space, but the early‑hour incident prompted a swift police response. As reported by This Is Local London, Crime, specialist officers arrived to secure the scene and begin an investigation. The victim, a teenage girl, was taken to a safe location and is receiving ongoing support from dedicated police liaison officers. The police have asked anyone with additional information to contact 101 and quote reference 163/07SEP26.

Magistrates' Court hearing

On 8 September 2026 the two defendants appeared before Willesden Magistrates' Court. The magistrates heard the charge of rape and, after reviewing the evidence presented by the Crown Prosecution Service, ordered that both Afghan and Nejad be remanded in custody. The court did not set a trial date at that hearing, instead scheduling a further appearance at Harrow Crown Court. The magistrates' decision means the suspects will remain in prison while the case proceeds.

Upcoming Crown Court appearance

The next scheduled hearing will take place at Harrow Crown Court on 22 September 2026. At that stage a Crown Court judge will consider whether the case should proceed to trial and may address any further bail applications. The Crown Prosecution Service has indicated that it will present its full case against the two men at that hearing. Residents of the surrounding area are advised that the court proceedings are a matter of public record and that any further updates will be published as they become available.

Victim support

The teenage victim continues to be assisted by specialist police officers trained in handling sexual offence cases. These officers provide emotional support, safety planning and liaison with health and social services. The police have confirmed that the victim’s identity will remain confidential throughout the legal process. Community groups in Hendon have been urged to offer additional support services, although no formal partnership has been announced at this stage.