A TAXI driver has been convicted of sexually assaulting a woman passenger from Crewe.

Najibullah Hakani, 27, was found guilty of assaulting the woman, who is in her 20s, after stopping off during a journey between Crewe and Audley in 2018.

He was convicted today (Tuesday) at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court.

The court heard that Hakani's passenger booked a taxi to take her from her home in Crewe to a friend's house in Audley in April 2018. She was travelling with her young son.

The Stoke-on-Trent taxi driver directed lewd comments and personal questions at the woman, before pulling over just off the A500 near to fields. He told her to get in the front of the cab, where he sexually assaulted her.

His victim went into her friend's house and reported the incident to police.

A DNA sample from clothing provided a link to Hakani.

Hakani, who was found guilty of one count of sexual assault and not guilty of a second count, will be sentenced on March 8.

Det. Insp Zoe Kelsall, of Staffordshire Police, said: "We're thankful the victim had the courage to come forward and tell us what happened.

"This was a frightening experience for her as she was vulnerable and worried about her own safety and that of her child."

Anyone who has suffered sexual abuse, or suspects others may be subject to sexual abuse, is urged to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.