Ghanaian jailed for sexual indecency

Julius Sowu, 53, a former student of Mfantsipim and son to a British mother appeared at Blackfriars Crown Court on Friday after pleading guilty to sexual assault following a British Transport Police (BTP) investigation.

Julius Sowu of Kensington High Street, was sentenced to 10 months in prison, was placed on the sex offenders register for 10 years and was handed a 10-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order (SOPO).

The order prevents him from travelling on the Tube network during weekdays from 7am to 9.30am and 4pm to 6.30pm.

Sowu committed the offence on Wednesday, May 9 last year around 8.30am onboard a Circle line train.

The court heard his 28-year-old victim boarded a busy westbound train at South Kensington and stood close to the door.

When the train reached Gloucester Road station Sowu got on to the same carriage and stood closely behind the woman.

He had his left arm around her body and was holding onto the bar in front.

The woman tried to move forward but there was no where to go and she felt trapped.

During the journey Sowu performed an indecent act on himself before leaving the train at High Street Kensington.

When the woman got to work she reported the incident to police.

Later that month the woman attended Gloucester Road station with plain clothed BTP officers and identified Sowu.

Officers continued to watch the 53-year-old, who was paying close attention to a female passenger on the platform.

When a train arrived Sowu attempted to board behind the female but was stopped by the officers.

Speaking after the sentencing, Detective Constable Claire Sheals, the investigating officer, said: “The victim was very upset and felt violated by Sowu’s actions and I would like to commend her for assisting the police at every stage, which was vital to securing the prosecution of Sowu.

“He is now in jail for his disgusting behaviour and will not be able to travel on the London Underground network during rush hour for the next 10 years.”