A migrant who arrived in the UK seeking asylum is now facing a prison sentence after being convicted of sexually assaulting a young woman near London Bridge station.
Attack After a Night Out
The court heard how the victim, a woman in her 20s, had fallen asleep on a bench after a night out. Abid Sherzad, aged 25, had bought her a takeaway pizza. She awoke to find him touching her intimately.
The woman told Croydon Magistrates' Court that she "didn't give him any impression that I was consenting whatsoever." Her testimony was pivotal in the case against Sherzad.
Caught on Camera and Arrested
A vigilant passer-by witnessed the incident in June and filmed Sherzad as he attempted to hide his face with a pizza box. This crucial evidence led to his arrest in October.
Sherzad had arrived in the United Kingdom just nine months prior to the assault. He claimed asylum, stating his life was in danger in Afghanistan due to his father's work with the government. At the time of the attack, he was staying at a hotel in Oxford funded by the taxpayer.
Guilty Verdict and Awaiting Sentence
Abid Sherzad was found guilty of sexual assault at Croydon Magistrates' Court. He is currently in custody and awaits a sentencing date at the Inner London Crown Court, where he is expected to receive a jail term.
The case highlights serious questions about the conduct of individuals within the asylum system and the vulnerability of women in public spaces at night.
