MOHAMMED RAHMAN FROM ROCHESTER CAUGHT IN SEXUAL ASSAULT ON BUS IN ELTERS END AND WEST WICKHAM

In a disturbing incident that took place on December 1 of the previous year, Mohammed Rahman, a 25-year-old man from Rochester, was involved in a serious sexual assault on a public bus in the areas of Elmers End Green and West Wickham. The incident occurred on the 194 bus route, where Rahman boarded the vehicle at St David’s Close, West Wickham, and sat next to two young girls on the upper deck.

According to reports, Rahman initiated inappropriate contact by kissing the victims and touching them sexually while they were seated on the bus. The victims, aged 15 and 16, felt uncomfortable and moved away from him before disembarking at their stop in Elmers End Green. Despite their efforts to distance themselves, Rahman also exited the bus and followed the girls for a short distance afterward, raising concerns about their safety.

Following the incident, police launched an appeal for information, which led to Rahman being recognized and subsequently arrested in a supermarket in West Wickham. His arrest was a direct result of community cooperation and the police’s efforts to identify the suspect.

Rahman was brought before Croydon Crown Court, where he pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual touching. On April 18, he was sentenced to a community order, a decision that drew criticism from some who believed a harsher penalty was warranted. As part of the community order, Rahman is required to complete 200 hours of unpaid work and is also mandated to register as a sex offender for a period of five years. Additionally, he was ordered to pay £100 in compensation to each of the victims, acknowledging the harm caused by his actions.

Throughout the proceedings, Rahman’s case drew attention to issues of public safety and the importance of community vigilance in preventing sexual offenses in public spaces. The incident remains a stark reminder of the ongoing need for awareness and protective measures to safeguard vulnerable individuals in everyday settings.