Passengers intervened to prevent Muslih Alotaibi from escaping
A 39-year-old man has been jailed for 19 weeks after sexually assaulting a woman on the Central line. On September 2 last year Muslih Alotaibi was walking along the carriage when he chose to sit down next to a lone woman – despite many other empty seats being available.
He then placed his jacket on his lap and proceeded to sexually assault her. A fellow passenger sat opposite her mouthed to ask if she was ok, and with tears in her eyes the victim responded no.
The young woman moved away from Alotaibi to sit by the passenger who asked if she was okay. They then asked her if the man had done something to her. The victim replied yes.
Hearing this, Alotaibi stood up to move away from the young woman and the passenger, but was stopped by other men on board who prevented him from leaving the train and escaping. As the train pulled into Mile End station Alotaibi was arrested by officers.
On Thursday, October 16 this year he was sentenced at Inner London Crown Court to 19 weeks in prison. He was also ordered to pay a £154 victim surcharge and register with police for seven years.
Investigating British Transport Police officer Detective Constable Julie Skinner said: “Alotaibi acted in an abhorrent and predatory manner towards this young woman, but the selfless actions of those on the train who noticed something was wrong and offered to help her kept her safe from further assault and ensured we were able to arrest Alotaibi and bring him to justice.
“When a member of the public bravely intervenes to confront or call out callous behaviour and sexual assaults, it reminds the victim that they are not alone and helps to prevent further unacceptable behaviour.
“I thank everyone who supported this investigation and supported the victim, and I hope that this result can bring her some comfort.
“If you experience or witness a sexual offence on the railway network or in a station, I urge you to report it to us by texting 61016 – officers can deploy immediately and begin urgent enquiries to bring offenders to justice.”
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