Nazim Asmal, 35, has been sentenced to 17 years in prison with a further five years on extended licence after pleading guilty to four counts of rape at Preston Crown Court, Lancashire, in November. Asmal, who currently has no fixed abode but was formerly of Balaclava Street in Blackburn, targeted women returning from nights out by pretending to be a taxi driver.

First Attack: October 2021

Asmal’s first attack occurred in October 2021. His victim got into his car in Preston city centre, believing it to be a legitimate taxi. Asmal drove for about 10 minutes, raped her in the car, and then dropped her back in the city centre. The victim then flagged down a member of the public for help.

Second Attack: March 2023

The second incident took place in March 2023. The victim, after a night out in Darwen, entered Asmal’s car. He drove her to a secluded area and raped her. Asmal managed to obtain her phone number and attempted to contact her in early April. When she finally answered on April 8, she recognized his voice but not his identity. Asmal’s inappropriate proposition prompted the victim to hang up.

Third Attack: April 2023

On the same evening of that call, Asmal raped his third victim. She entered his car in Darwen town centre, and he drove her towards Bolton, asking, “You don’t want to pay for this taxi, do you?” He raped her and then dropped her off at her home address.

Tracking and Arrest

Lancashire Police tracked Asmal down after his black Toyota Yaris was picked up on CCTV cameras.

Impact on Victims

The first victim said, “my life was changed forever,” and expressed feelings of overwhelming sadness and anger. She continues to struggle with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, avoiding social interactions and feeling unsafe even walking her dogs at night.

The second victim said the attack led to the end of her relationship, making it difficult for her to get close to anyone. She suffers from stress and anxiety, especially since Asmal knew her home address.

The third victim described feeling constantly anxious and out of control, experiencing weight loss and hypervigilance since the attack.

Police Statement

Lancashire Police commended the bravery of the victims in coming forward and encouraged others who may have experienced similar attacks to report them.

This case highlights the importance of vigilance and the need for measures to ensure the safety of individuals returning home from nights out. Asmal’s conviction serves as a warning to others who might consider such predatory behaviour