26/12/2025
In a chilling display of predatory behaviour, a fake taxi driver meticulously stalked his victim for almost an hour through the streets of Leicester before subjecting her to a horrific sexual assault. Ghulan Mohammed, 36, was captured on extensive CCTV footage, painting a grim picture of his calculated actions before and during the attack on a vulnerable, intoxicated woman. The evidence presented at Leicester Crown Court not only detailed his pursuit but also his subsequent attempts to evade justice, ultimately leading to his conviction and a substantial prison sentence.
The Predatory Hunt Unveiled by CCTV
The disturbing events began to unfold as Mohammed, operating a vehicle that was not a legitimate taxi, began to prowl Leicester's city centre. CCTV footage, a crucial element in the prosecution's case, revealed Mohammed's relentless pursuit of his unsuspecting victim. For nearly sixty minutes, he shadowed her movements, waiting for the opportune moment to strike. This prolonged period of observation underscores the premeditated nature of his crime. The footage then showed him eventually coercing the intoxicated woman into his car, marking the beginning of her terrifying ordeal.
The aftermath of the abduction was equally disturbing. Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) data, combined with further CCTV evidence, tracked Mohammed's vehicle across multiple locations within the city, including Richard III Road, Pingle Street, and Swan Street. This geographical tracking confirmed the duration and extent of his control over the victim during a two-hour period. The relentless movement suggested an attempt to disorient and further isolate the woman.
A Desperate Bid for Freedom and a Vicious Attack
The ordeal reached a critical point in the early hours of the morning at a petrol station. Disturbing footage captured the victim's desperate attempt to escape Mohammed's clutches. She was seen in an "angry and distressed state," a clear indication of her struggle and resistance against her attacker. Despite her efforts, Mohammed managed to regain control and force her back into the vehicle, driving her to Leicester Forest East. The journey culminated in a hotel car park on Hinckley Road, where the assault continued.
The full horror of the situation only became apparent when the victim's friends, alerted by her ability to track her phone, located her. They found her in a state of extreme distress, partially undressed and covered in mud, still inside Mohammed's car. The physical evidence of the assault was undeniable, with the victim bearing bruises and having had her bank cards stolen. Even as her friends intervened and led her away, Mohammed, who was reportedly without trousers, attempted to persuade her to return to his car, further highlighting his depravity.
Justice Served: Prosecution and Sentencing
Following his arrest, Mohammed initially denied that any sexual act had occurred without the victim's consent. However, the overwhelming evidence presented during a week-long trial at Leicester Crown Court painted a starkly different picture. Maimuna Bappa, representing the Crown Prosecution Service, emphasised the critical role of CCTV and ANPR evidence in unequivocally demonstrating Mohammed's predatory behaviour. She stated, “The picture of these events was clear – that this is an extremely dangerous sexual predator and that the victim has shown extraordinary courage to resist him during the attack and to give what help she can to the investigation and prosecution.”
The jury found Ghulan Mohammed, of Princess Street in Burton on Trent, guilty of multiple serious offences. These included four counts of sexual assault, attempted rape, theft, and four counts of fraud. Last Friday, at Northampton Crown Court, he was sentenced to a total of seven years and three months in prison. This sentence reflects the severity of his crimes and serves as a stark warning to others who might consider such acts.
Key Evidence and Legal Proceedings
The successful prosecution hinged on several key pieces of evidence:
| Evidence Type | Significance |
|---|---|
| CCTV Footage | Documented the hour-long hunt, the abduction, and the victim's escape attempts. Provided visual proof of Mohammed's actions and the victim's distress. |
| ANPR Data | Tracked Mohammed's vehicle movements, corroborating the CCTV evidence and establishing a timeline of the crime. |
| Victim's Testimony | Detailed the horrific ordeal, although her distressed state during the attack was clearly visible in the footage. |
| Physical Evidence | Bruises on the victim and stolen bank cards directly linked Mohammed to the assault and theft. |
The CPS highlighted that the CCTV evidence "clearly showed the victim was not consenting." This was a pivotal point in proving the sexual assault charges. The court proceedings underscored the importance of technological evidence in modern criminal investigations.
Understanding the Risks: Fake Taxis and Vulnerable Individuals
This case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unlicensed or "fake" taxi drivers. These individuals often prey on vulnerable individuals, particularly those who are intoxicated and may not be fully aware of their surroundings. It is crucial for the public to be aware of the following:
- Always use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services. Look for official identification and licensing details.
- Be aware of your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, do not get into a vehicle.
- Inform friends or family of your travel plans. Share your location and expected arrival time.
- Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
The courage of the victim in this case, in resisting her attacker and cooperating with the investigation, was instrumental in securing justice. Her bravery, coupled with the diligent work of the police and the prosecution, has led to the removal of a dangerous offender from the streets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What made the CCTV footage so crucial in this case?
The CCTV footage was crucial as it provided irrefutable visual evidence of Ghulan Mohammed's predatory behaviour, including his hour-long pursuit of the victim, her distress, and his attempts to keep her in the car. It clearly showed the victim was not consenting.
Q2: How did the victim's friends find her?
The victim's friends were able to track her phone, which allowed them to locate her in Mohammed's car at the hotel car park.
Q3: What was the sentence given to Ghulan Mohammed?
Ghulan Mohammed was sentenced to seven years and three months in prison for sexual assault, attempted rape, theft, and fraud.
Q4: What are the risks associated with using unlicensed taxis?
Unlicensed taxis, or "fake taxis," pose significant risks as they are not regulated, insured, or vetted. Drivers may have criminal intent, as demonstrated in this case, and passengers have no recourse if something goes wrong.
Q5: What advice is given to prevent similar incidents?
It is advised to always use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services, be aware of your surroundings, inform others of your travel plans, and trust your instincts.
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