Ali Dizaei trial witness faces rape probe by Met

The central witness and victim in the trial of former Scotland Yard commander Ali Dizaei is under investigation for rape.

Waad al-Baghdadi, 25, was arrested last year by detectives probing an alleged sexual assault at a home in central London.

The freelance internet developer was questioned on suspicion of rape after a woman came forward to police.

It is understood the alleged attack was a "historic" incident that took place some time before.

The suspect was rearrested in Bayswater, west London, nine days ago on suspicion of breaching his bail conditions. He was released with no further action.

The investigation comes as Dizaei, 48, prepares to challenge his conviction for corruption in the High Court.

His legal team, led by Michael Mansfield QC, believe there is fresh evidence that shows the case against him is fundamentally flawed.

They want judges to examine claims Mr al-Baghdadi used a false name and nationality when he appeared in court under oath.

Dizaei was jailed for four years in February last year after a jury found he attacked Mr al-Baghdadi outside a Kensington restaurant in a row over money.

The Iranian-born officer arrested the younger man and falsely claimed he assaulted him with a mouthpiece from a hookah pipe.

Details of the appeal are expected to be laid bare during a three-day hearing at the High Court in late March. No date has been set.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "On September 28 last year a 25-year-old man was arrested in connection with an allegation of a sexual offence.

"He was taken to a central London police station and released on police bail pending further inquiries.

"The man was rearrested on January 22 in the Bayswater area for an alleged breach of his police bail conditions.

"He was later released with no further action regarding this matter and remains on bail in connection with the investigation."

Neither Mr al-Baghdadi or Dizaei's solicitor could be reached for comment.