Public urged not to approach rapist who went on the run from trial

The public is being urged not to approach a convicted rapist who failed to turn up to the final day of his trial over a week ago.

Omed Hassan went on the run before the final day of his trial at the High Court in Edinburgh on March 13, where he was convicted of raping a sleeping student in St Andrews in his absence.

The 26-year-old, who has been on bail since February last year, had denied assaulting the woman while she was asleep and incapable of consenting on February 3, 2023.

A warrant was issued for Hassan’s arrest after he failed to show up to court when jurors were deliberating their verdict.

Police issued an appeal for information on his whereabouts on March 14 but have been unable to trace him.

Hassan is known to frequent Perth, Aberdeen and Fife and is described as around 6ft tall with short, black hair.

The public has been urged not to approach Hassan and instead report any sightings to police on 101.

Inspector Robb said: “I would urge this man to get in contact with the police and if anyone has seen him since Thursday, March 13, or has any information on his whereabouts, please contact us.

“Extensive enquiries and searches are ongoing throughout the areas Omed is known to frequent. Members of the public are urged not to approach him but should contact Police Scotland through 101, quoting incident number 0943 of March 13”.