FALKIRK, SCOTLAND — Justice Delivered in Broad Daylight Rape Case as Sadeq Nikzad Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison

FALKIRK, SCOTLAND — Justice Delivered in Broad Daylight Rape Case as Sadeq Nikzad Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison

FALKIRK, SCOTLAND — The town of Falkirk continues to reckon with the trauma of a horrific assault that took place in its bustling town centre on Monday, 16 October 2023. Now, more than a year later, justice has been served. Sadeq Nikzad, a 29-year-old man, was sentenced on Wednesday, 18 June 2025, to nine years in prison and placed on the Sex Offenders Register for life following his conviction for the rape of a teenage girl.

The sentencing was handed down at the High Court in Livingston, concluding a lengthy legal process that followed the violent incident that occurred in broad daylight in one of Falkirk’s busiest public areas. The case has shocked the local community, not only for the brutality of the crime but also for the brazenness with which it was committed.

The trial concluded on Wednesday, 5 March 2025, with the jury finding Nikzad guilty of the rape — a crime described by law enforcement officials as “particularly harrowing.”

A Crime That Shook a Community

The assault took place during daylight hours, in a central area frequented by shoppers, students, and families. The victim, a teenage girl, was subjected to a terrifying ordeal that has had a lasting impact on her emotional and psychological well-being.

In the wake of the sentencing, Detective Inspector Forbes Wilson of the Forth Valley Public Protection Unit delivered a powerful message:

“This was a particularly harrowing attack which was carried out during daylight in a busy town centre.
Nikzad’s heinous actions had a profound effect on his young victim and I would like to commend her strength throughout this ordeal.
I would also like to thank local officers for their excellent work which ensured Nikzad was identified, arrested and off the street within a few short hours following the incident.”

The swift identification and arrest of Nikzad were the result of a coordinated and urgent response by Police Scotland, which deployed substantial resources in the aftermath of the attack. Investigators quickly gathered evidence and secured the suspect’s apprehension, helping prevent any further potential harm.

A Firm Commitment to Justice

The case has become a focal point in local discussions about public safety, especially concerning the vulnerability of women and girls in public spaces. Law enforcement officials are underscoring their commitment to supporting victims and vigorously prosecuting those responsible for sexual violence.

“Police Scotland remains committed to tackling sexual crimes and bringing those responsible to justice,” Wilson added. “We have specially trained officers and partner agencies to support victims throughout the entire investigative process. I’d encourage anyone who has been a victim of such crimes to come forward and report it to us.”

Community Reactions and Support

The community response to the crime has been marked by both grief and solidarity. Local organizations, advocacy groups, and schools have been working together to offer support to young people and to promote conversations around safety, consent, and mental health.

Chief Inspector Alexander Hatrick, Area Commander for Falkirk, also addressed the broader implications of the case:

“We understand that crimes of this nature have a serious impact on the local community. We will continue to work closely with partners to address any such concerns in the area.”

A Call to Action

The sentencing of Sadeq Nikzad is seen as a measure of justice for the survivor and a signal that such heinous acts will be met with the full force of the law. However, authorities and community leaders emphasize that more must be done to ensure that public spaces are safe and that survivors are believed, protected, and empowered to seek justice.

Anyone who has experienced sexual assault or has information about such crimes is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101 or to reach out anonymously through Rape Crisis Scotland at 08088 01 03 02 — 24 hours a day.

As Falkirk continues to heal, the courage of the young survivor stands as a testament to the strength of those who face unimaginable harm and choose to speak out.