A 23-year-old man who posed as a taxi driver to pick up a woman in Bristol who he later attempted to rape has been jailed for five years and four months.
Mohammed Afzal, of no fixed address, was driving around Bristol city centre in the early hours of Thursday 14 April 2016, when he stopped to pick up a 22-year-old woman who thought she was getting into a taxi.
Afzal drove her to an unknown venue where he attempted to rape her.
He was sentenced to five years and four months’ imprisonment and an additional three year extended licence at Bristol Crown Court after previously admitting a charge of attempted rape. He’ll also be on the Sex Offenders’ Register for life.
Investigating officer Acting Det Sgt Laura Miller said: “Afzal posed as a taxi driver and can be seen on CCTV footage driving around Bristol city centre looking for someone to target.
“He drove past the victim before turning his car around. He then parks nearby and runs towards the victim, leading her towards his vehicle.
“He drives her to an unknown location and attempts to rape her, plying her with illegal drugs including opiates and amphetamine during this horrific ordeal.
“The victim was dropped off at her home several hours later but crucially asked for his phone number, which he gave her.
“She reported the incident to police later the same day and we took the decision to message Afzal, posing as the victim and arranging to meet up. He attended this meeting and was arrested and later charged.
“The victim’s faith in humanity has been deeply wounded by this incident, which I hope in time she will go onto recover from.
“Afzal is a predatory sexual offender who preyed on this victim’s vulnerability, but a combination of the victim’s bravery in coming forward and dynamic policing methods means he’s now been removed from the streets.”
Following the sentencing hearing, the victim said: “People like him exist. You don’t think it’s going to happen to you.
“You’re strong and you’re fine, but it does happen and you can have your strength taken away from you.”
Victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent, can also self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit their website at thebridgecanhelp.org.uk or call 0117 342 6999
The Bridge provides medical care and emotional and practical support to anyone affected by rape and sexual assault. You can call The Bridge for help and decide about talking to the police later.
You can also visit thisisnotanexcuse.org for details of charities and organisations who are experts in supporting victims.
