Please be advised: The following article contains information that may relate to violence and trauma. Consider your well-being before proceeding.
The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) has arrested and charged a 19-year-old man in connection with a series of violent sexual assaults targeting sex-trade workers in 2025. The investigation, led by the Sex Crimes Unit and Counter Exploitation Unit, began in April and uncovered three separate attacks involving weapons, including a firearm and a knife.
The accused, Mohammed AL-SAMRAEI, remains in custody and faces multiple serious criminal charges, including Sexual Assault with a Weapon, Pointing a Firearm, and Overcoming Resistance by Attempting to Choke.
Timeline of Incidents
April 25, 2025 – St. Matthews Avenue
A man arranged to meet a sex-trade worker in the 1400 block of St. Matthews Avenue. The woman was sexually assaulted with a weapon, and the suspect fled. The victim was transported to hospital and an investigation was launched. The suspect was not immediately identified.
May 10, 2025 – Hargrave Street
Another woman was targeted after arranging to meet a man in the 300 block of Hargrave Street. She was seriously sexually assaulted, threatened at knife point, and her cellphone was stolen. She was hospitalized and police were able to identify a suspect through investigative work.
October 4, 2025 – Sargent Avenue
A third incident occurred in the 1700 block of Sargent Avenue, where a woman was again sexually assaulted. The suspect fled the scene, and the victim was treated at hospital.
Arrest and Charges
On October 13, 2025, officers from the Sex Crimes Unit attended a commercial business in the 1600 block of Kenaston Boulevard, where they located and arrested Mohammed AL-SAMRAEI in connection to the April and May incidents.
After further investigation, AL-SAMRAEI was also linked to the October 4th assault. On October 19, officers from the Counter Exploitation Unit attended the Winnipeg Remand Centre and arrested him on an additional warrant for Sexual Assault.
Charges Laid Against AL-SAMRAEI
The 19-year-old has been charged with:
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Sexual Assault with a Weapon (x2)
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Pointing a Firearm
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Carrying a Concealed Weapon or Prohibited Device (x2)
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Possession of a Prohibited Weapon Contrary to Prohibition Order
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Assault
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Overcoming Resistance by Attempting to Choke, Suffocate, or Strangle
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Uttering Threats – Cause Death or Bodily Harm
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Theft Under $5,000
He remains in custody as the investigation continues.
Police Appeal for Additional Victims
The Counter Exploitation Unit is encouraging any individuals who may have experienced similar incidents to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to contact the unit directly at 204-986-3464 or by email at wps-ceu@winnipeg.ca. For urgent assistance, call 911.
WPS Statement
The Winnipeg Police Service reiterated its commitment to public safety, stating:
“We strongly encourage anyone who has experienced physical or sexual violence to come forward. All reports will be taken seriously and fully investigated.”
