PREDATORY INDIVIDUAL: Fake taxi driver jailed for rape in Edinburgh

Image credit: Police Scotland

A man who posed as a taxi driver and raped a woman in his unlicensed vehicle has been sentenced to seven years in prison.

Mohamad Sabbagh, 40, was convicted on 1 August after a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh. The court heard that Sabbagh offered a lift to his victim and her friend after a night out in Edinburgh on 1 May 2022.

The two women, believing he was a legitimate taxi driver, accepted the offer and got into his car. After dropping off one woman at her home, Sabbagh drove the remaining passenger to a secluded area.

It was there that he demanded the woman have sex with him. Climbing into the back of the car, he raped the intoxicated woman, who was unable to consent due to her vulnerable state.

On 28 August, Sabbagh was sentenced to seven years' imprisonment. His name has been added to the sex offenders register indefinitely.

Additionally, a non-harassment order has been imposed, preventing Sabbagh from contacting or attempting to contact his victim for an indefinite period.

Scotland’s procurator fiscal for High Court sexual offending, Katrina Parkes, said: “Mohamad Sabbagh is a predatory individual who poses a danger to women. The bravery of his victim has resulted in this conviction, and he will now face the consequences of his depraved behaviour.

“We hope his conviction sends a clear message that the COPFS is committed to prosecuting sexual offences.

“I would encourage anyone affected by similar offending to come forward. You will be listened to and we will seek to secure justice, ensuring that those responsible are identified and held accountable.”