‘Predatory’ London private hire driver who kept lube and condoms in glovebox jailed for rape
Updated: Mar 23, 2023
A private hire driver described as a ‘predator’ has been jailed after pleading guilty to raping a woman in Croydon.
Homayon Ahmadi, 23, appeared at Croydon Crown Court on Wednesday 26 January where he was convicted of one count of rape and two counts of sexual assault.
On Thursday 16 March at the same court he was sentenced to 13 years’ imprisonment with a further seven years on license.
Detective Constable Natalie Alchin, who led the investigation, said: “Ahmadi is a predatory offender and we are pleased he is behind bars and unable to cause further harm.
“The victims in the case played a vital part in his conviction and we hope that this case encourages other women who have been subject to sexual offences to come forward.”
On 19 April 2021, a 41-year-old woman called police to say she had been picked up by a cab earlier that evening. During the journey, he pulled over in the car and raped her.
Detectives immediately launched an investigation and began extensive enquiries in an attempt to identify the suspect and the vehicle he was driving.
While the investigation was ongoing, a 21-year-old women called police on 25 July 2021, saying that she and a friend had been picked up by a cab in central London.
During the journey, the driver stopped off at an off licence and purchased whisky. He then offered the women the alcohol and asked that they come back to his house. The women felt threatened and attempted to get out of the car while on Hornsey Street, N7.
As they did so, Ahmadi grabbed both women and sexually assaulted them before driving away from the scene.
CCTV enquiries and analysis of mobile phone data led officers to identify a suspect buying whisky in a shop he had stopped at during the journey. A media appeal including an image from the CCTV was issued and in December 2021 Ahmadi was subsequently identified and arrested. Forensics linked him to the earlier rape.
In his police interview, Ahmadi denied all of the offences. A search of his car found a purple pencil case filled with condoms and baby oil in the glove compartment.
DC Alchin added: “There may be other victims of Ahmadi who until now have not spoken to police. If you believe this is you, please contact us on 101. We have specialist officers who will support you.
“Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
