Fake Taxi Driver Sentenced to 13 Years for Rape After Posing as Cabbie
A man who posed as a taxi driver has been jailed for 13 years after raping a woman he drove to her Chesterfield home following a night out in Sheffield. Shabir Sultani, 27, of Sturton Road in Sheffield, was convicted of rape and sexual assault after a trial at Derby Crown Court in November.
Deceptive Journey Leads to Horrific Attack
In spring 2025, the victim had been enjoying an evening out with a friend in Sheffield but decided to return home early, leaving her companion at a nightclub. Upon exiting the venue, she entered what she believed was a legitimate taxi. Sultani assured her he was a licensed cabbie and offered to transport her home to Chesterfield.
During the journey, Sultani offered the woman vodka, which she declined. He then drove her to her residence. Upon arrival, he followed her to her front door and forcibly entered the house. Despite her repeated pleas for him to leave, Sultani kissed the woman before raping her. The victim managed to fight him off by kicking him during the assault.
Investigation and Conviction
Sultani was identified through CCTV footage and automatic number plate recognition technology linked to his vehicle. He was apprehended by police and charged with rape and sexual assault. He denied the allegations but was found guilty after a trial.
He recently returned to Derby Crown Court for sentencing, where he received a 13-year prison term with an additional seven-year extension for dangerousness. The court also issued him with a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, a restraining order prohibiting any contact with the victim, and mandated his registration on the Sex Offenders' Register.
Police Praise Victim's Bravery
Detective staff investigator Beth Waite, who led the investigation, commended the victim's courage. She stated, "Sultani clearly preyed on this woman on this occasion, pretending to be a taxi driver and offering to take her home. Despite her repeatedly saying she wasn't interested and asking him to leave her alone, he continued to force himself upon her, ultimately raping her."
Waite added, "This incident will undoubtedly have a long-lasting impact on her, but her bravery has ensured that we were able to bring the perpetrator to justice. I hope that knowing he is now behind bars will allow her some form of peace."
Support for Victims
Derbyshire Police are urging anyone who has experienced rape or sexual assault to come forward and report it. Officers have pledged to listen "without judgement and support you throughout" the process. The case highlights the importance of vigilance and reporting such crimes to ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
