Predator Convicted for Heinous Sexual Assault on Teenager During Train Journey
A man described as a 'despicable' predator has been found guilty of sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl while she was travelling on a train from Southend to London. Abdulmanon Aliev, a 50-year-old national of Tajikistan, was convicted of multiple serious offences following the incident that occurred on June 16 last year.
Disturbing Details of the Attack
Inner London Crown Court heard that Aliev initially approached the young victim on the train and sat opposite her, attempting to communicate using a translator application on his mobile phone. When the girl moved to a different seat in an effort to avoid him, Aliev followed her and positioned himself in the aisle seat, effectively trapping her against the window.
He then proceeded to force himself upon her, subjecting the terrified teenager to a prolonged and abhorrent sexual assault that continued until the train reached its final destination at London Fenchurch Street station. It was only upon arrival that the victim managed to escape from her attacker and disembark from the train.
Brave Response and Police Investigation
Displaying remarkable courage, the traumatised girl immediately boarded another train heading away from London, leaving Aliev behind at the station. She then reported the horrific ordeal to members of the public who encountered her in a visibly distressed state.
British Transport Police were promptly alerted and launched an urgent investigation. Detectives meticulously reviewed extensive CCTV footage to track Aliev's movements both before and after the attack. Their determined manhunt concluded on June 27 when officers spotted and arrested him in Peckham, South London.
During a subsequent search of Aliev's residence on Rye Lane, South London, police discovered and seized the clothing he had worn during the assault, providing crucial evidence for the prosecution.
Court Verdict and Sentencing
Following a week-long trial at Inner London Crown Court, jurors returned guilty verdicts on Thursday, April 9. Aliev was convicted of two counts of assault by penetration, three counts of sexual assault, and attempted rape. The sentencing hearing has been scheduled for June 17.
Detective Constable Elizabeth Cahill, who led the investigation, stated: "Aliev singled out a vulnerable child and subjected her to one of the most abhorrent sexual assaults I've ever investigated. While the focus of attention will rightly be on him as the despicable sexual predator that he is, I want to pay tribute to the brave victim who reported him to police."
She further emphasized: "This verdict would not have been possible without her account of what happened and her willingness to support our investigation. We take every sexual offence report extremely seriously, and we'll stop at nothing to put offenders like Aliev before the courts."
The case highlights the ongoing efforts of transport police to combat sexual offences on the rail network and the importance of victims coming forward to report such crimes. Authorities continue to urge anyone who experiences or witnesses sexual harassment or assault on public transport to contact British Transport Police immediately.
