TAXI DRIVER JAILED FOR SEXUALLY ASSAULTING TWO LONE FEMALES IN CARDIFF
Amanuele Mebrahtu, residing in Canton, Cardiff, was identified after an extensive review of CCTV footage, which tracked his movements on foot and in his vehicle from the city centre to Cathays.His mobile phone, used primarily for managing his taxi service, also provided a real-time GPS feed that closely matched the suspect depicted on the CCTV recordings.
Forensic analysis later linked his DNA to a stain on the victim's dress, confirming his involvement.
Despite this, Mebrahtu continued to deny any responsibility for the attacks that occurred in October and December 2024.
The Uber driver is accused of sexually assaulting a passenger after dropping her off at her home and asking for a hug.
He is also alleged to have sexually assaulted another woman after offering to carry her piggyback down some stairs.
Although he denied both allegations, Mebrahtu, aged 28, was convicted at Newport Crown Court of sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault through touching.
He received a sentence of seven years and three months in prison, along with an extended three-year license period.
This sentence was handed down at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday, November 4.
He was also placed under sex offender notification requirements indefinitely and issued a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Detective Constable Shane Coombes from South Wales Police stated: “I want to praise the victims for their bravery and their willingness to come forward, share their experiences, and support the investigation.
I hope the court's decision offers them some reassurance that justice has been served.
Their courage has also contributed to protecting others by removing a dangerous predator from our streets.”
