Posted on the 24th October 2025 in PHTM News

PETERBOROUGH BLACKMAILER JAILED FOR 28 MONTHS AFTER THREATENING VICTIM IN TAXI

A man has been sentenced to two years and four months in prison for blackmail after threatening a victim inside a taxi in Peterborough and forcing him to hand over money.

The incident occurred on January 20 last year in Lincoln Road, Millfield, when 36-year-old Omar Afzal spotted the victim in a taxi.

A spokesperson for Cambridgeshire Police explained the events: "The victim was waiting for a friend to return to the vehicle when Afzal got in, began making threats towards the victim and suggested he had a weapon," the spokesperson said.

When the victim's friend returned, Afzal refused to get out and told the friend to move to the front seat.

"Afzal threatened the victim and demanded £100. The man refused but handed over £20 to appease him.

"Afzal, who had one leg out of the taxi, demanded more money, but the vehicle drove off, leaving him behind."

Afzal, from Peterborough, was arrested after the victim reported the matter to police. During a search, officers found a small bag of cannabis. Afzal admitted to the possession of cannabis but denied the blackmail charge.

He was found guilty of blackmail following a trial and was jailed at Cambridge Crown Court on Tuesday, October 14.

DC Miskin commented on the serious nature of the crime: "Blackmail is a serious offence that can leave victims feeling frightened and vulnerable."

Miskin added: "The victim in this case was simply waiting for a friend. Afzal knew the victim and knew that he was fearful of him and his reputation; and he decided to exploit the situation for his own gain."

The detective concluded: "No one should be made to feel intimidated or coerced into handing over money, no matter the value. We take offences like this incredibly seriously and will do all we can to get justice for victims."


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