Fake taxi driver sexually assaults woman after Pangaea

The victim got into the car on Oxford Road


A 19-year-old was sexually attacked by a man claiming to be a taxi driver in Freshers’ Week.

The fake cabbie picked her up on Oxford Road and drove her to an unknown location where she was sexually assaulted and then dropped off in Fallowfield.

The attack happened in the early hours of Sunday 21st September, after the pervert picked the woman up outside The Holy Name Church.

The 19-year-old was attending Pangaea

Det Con Elizabeth Howe said: “This was understandably very distressing for this young woman and she is being fully supported by specially trained officers.

“We would like to hear from anyone who was out in the area or at the Pangaea event itself last Saturday night into the early hours of Sunday morning, who may have any information that could assist our investigation.

“We would also like to remind the public to use licensed taxi companies by either pre-booking or going to a designated taxi rank.

“Stay together on a night out, and never get into an unknown car without checking it is a licensed taxi first. If unsure, go to a taxi rank particularly if you are on your own.”

The woman was picked up outside the church on Oxford Road

Over 6,000 students attended the popular jungle themed night in Freshers’ Week.

Police say the attacker was in his 30s, mixed race with short hair and glasses. The car he was driving was a dark coloured saloon.

Police are asking witnesses or anyone with information to come forward, and encourage students to only use licenced taxis and pre ordered mini cabs.

If you have any information, call the police on 0161 856 4146 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.