Posted on the 31st March 2026 in PHTM News

SEX OFFENCES BY LICENSED DRIVERS TRIPLE IN LONDON AS PASSENGER ATTACKS RISE

Recorded sexual offences by taxi and private hire drivers in the Capital have more than tripled over a three-year period, according to new police data.

Figures obtained via a Freedom of Information request by  https://www.sexualabusecompensationadvice.org.uk/show that the Metropolitan Police recorded 70 charges against drivers between 2023 and 2025, with annual cases jumping from 10 to 34.

The data reveals a disturbing increase in crimes committed specifically against passengers during journeys.

While no such offences were recorded in 2023, the number rose to 11 last year. These crimes included "the rape of a woman aged 16 or older," seven counts of sexual assault, and instances of sexual penetration.

Of the total 70 charges across the three years, 17 occurred while the driver was on duty, while the remaining 52 took place outside of work.

The report also highlighted that licensed drivers targeted children on 19 separate occasions. These cases included the rape of girls aged 13 to 15 and a charge last year involving "causing / inciting a girl under 13 years old to engage in sexual activity by penetration."

Other recorded offences involving off-duty drivers included attempted rape, sexual communication with children, and the sharing of intimate images.

In response to the figures, a spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said the force is "committed to tackling sexual violence and abuse across the city."

They noted that by expanding specialist teams to "relentlessly pursue the highest risk predatory men," the Met has successfully tripled charges for rape and serious sexual offences overall.

The police emphasised that they are working to build public trust through initiatives like Operation Soteria.

The spokesperson added: "We will continue to work closely with TfL, BTP and local partners, recognising that lasting safety on all aspects of the capital’s transport network requires a coordinated, city-wide response."


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