Uber driver jailed for sexually assaulting Cardiff passengers

An Uber driver who sexually assaulted two passengers in Cardiff has been jailed for more than seven years.

Amanuele Mebrahtu, 28, of Canton, Cardiff, was identified following an extensive CCTV trawl that tracked him on foot and within his vehicle, travelling from the city centre to Cathays. An app on his phone, which he used for his taxi services, also provided a live second-by-second location that matched perfectly against the suspect shown on CCTV.

Despite later being forensically linked to the victim’s clothing via DNA on her dress, Mebrahtu continued to deny being responsible for the attacks which happened in October and December 2024.

The Uber driver had sexually assaulted a passenger after driving her back to her home and asking her for a hug. He would later sexually assault another woman after offering to give her a piggyback down some stairs.

The 28-year-old continued to deny both allegations but was found guilty at Newport Crown Court of sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault by touching.

Mebrahtu was sentenced to seven years and three months imprisonment, with an extended licence period of three years, at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday, November 4. The defendant was also made subject to sex offender notification requirements and a Sexual Harm Prevention Order indefinitely.

Detective Constable Shane Coombes from South Wales Police said: “I want to commend the victims for their bravery and the courage in coming forward, sharing what had happened, and supporting the investigation. I hope that the outcome at court brings them some comfort that the offender has been brought to justice and that their bravery has helped protect the wider public from harm. A dangerous predator is now rightfully off our streets.”

South Wales Police added: “We never underestimate how difficult it is for survivors of sexual abuse to speak out and report. But we hope cases like this one provide reassurance that victims will be listened to, treated with dignity and respect, and will be supported throughout the judicial process.”