‘Deplorable’ Inverness cab driver handed six year sentence for rape of woman

A cabbie from Inverness was sentenced to six years in prison after being found guilty of raping a lone female passenger on an isolated country road.

Anwar Chowdhury assaulted the drunk woman, who was in her early 30’s, in the back of his Volkswagen Sharan cab. The incident took place in Inverness in August 2018.

The 41-year-old was found guilty of the offence after a trial at the High Court in Aberdeen last November.

He was yesterday, 4 February, sentenced to six years in prison and placed on the sex offenders register for life.

Detective Inspector Diane Smith said: "Anwar Chowdhury abused a position of trust and responsibility to take advantage of a vulnerable woman for his own gratification when she was not in a position to give consent.

"His behaviour has been deplorable. His conviction is a testament to her bravery throughout the police investigation and subsequent legal process.

"Sexual offending is unacceptable and tackling crime of this nature is a priority for Police Scotland, both nationally and locally in the Highlands and Islands.

"Put simply, sex without consent is rape and we work closely with a range of partners to support and seek justice for victims, while taking action against perpetrators."

Image credit: Police Scotland