Canary Wharf attacker jailed for six years after security staff intervention

Syed Imam was sentenced to six years imprisonment on September 3 for an attempted rape in a Canary Wharf underpass. Security staff at Canary Wharf station intervened to stop the attack, leading to Imam's arrest. He was found guilty of attempted rape on July 2 at Snaresbrook Crown Court following a four-day trial.

Public intervention praised

The Metropolitan Police commended the actions of the security staff who detained Imam, allowing officers to attend the scene and secure evidence. The police stated that the arrest was made within half an hour of the assault. Detective Constable Madeleine Powell highlighted the significance of the intervention. "If security staff at Canary Wharf had not bravely intervened, this violent offender could still be walking our streets, and the victim may have suffered even more harm than she already has," DC Powell said. She added that everyone has a role to play in protecting women and girls and reporting concerning behaviour.

Investigation and prosecution

Officers arrested Imam and progressed the investigation, securing a charge within 24 hours of the incident. During body-worn footage released by the Met, Imam claimed he had not been seen committing the offence and called the grounds for arrest a lie. The victim was supported by specialist officers throughout the proceedings. The Met reported that arrests and charges for rape have nearly doubled in the past year, with a 71 per cent increase in arrests and charges for general violence against women and girls.