A Ugandan rugby international named Phillip Pariyo has been found guilty of raping a woman in Cardiff, despite her desperate pleas for him to stop. The victim stated that Pariyo had forcefully invaded her body and left a lasting impact on her, making her feel powerless and violated. The 22-year-old, who had previously represented Uganda in rugby sevens at the Commonwealth Games, sought asylum in Wales after facing false accusations of homosexuality in his home country. Pariyo played for several semi-professional clubs in Cardiff at the time of the assault.
The disturbing incident took place when the victim visited a flat in Cardiff and woke up to find Pariyo next to her, requesting sex. Ignoring her protests and screams to stop, Pariyo proceeded to rape her as she fought back, eventually becoming physically exhausted. Following the assault, the victim locked herself in the bathroom while Pariyo left her distressed. Despite her message to him about the rape, Pariyo denied any sexual activity between them during the trial.
During the sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court, the victim’s statement highlighted the emotional trauma she endured, leading to nightmares, difficulties at work and studies, and reliance on heavy drinking and therapy. The victim expressed feeling violated and powerless, with lasting scars from the experience. In his defence, Pariyo’s lawyer mentioned his client’s asylum status in the UK and the potential risks he would face if deported to Uganda. The court noted Pariyo’s physical strength as a rugby player, emphasizing the severity of his actions.
Judge Celia Hughes condemned Pariyo’s behaviour as an “appalling attack and physical violation,” stating that someone in his position should have acted as a role model instead of exploiting others. She sentenced him to four years and six months in prison, with the requirement to serve two-thirds of the term before release on licence, along with indefinite sex offender notification obligations. The court’s ruling aimed to hold Pariyo accountable for his actions and ensure justice for the victim.
The case sheds light on the importance of addressing sexual assault and the impact it has on survivors. It also underscores the need for accountability and consequences for perpetrators of such heinous crimes. The victim’s courage in speaking out and seeking justice serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience displayed by survivors of sexual violence. The legal proceedings and sentencing in this case aim to provide a sense of closure and justice for the victim while sending a clear message about the serious consequences of such reprehensible actions.