30/10/2025
A 39-year-old man has been sentenced to 19 weeks in prison after targeting a young woman on the Central Line, following a British Transport Police investigation.
Muslih Alotaibi (13/11/1985), and of no fixed address, was sentenced at London Inner Crown Court on Thursday 16 October and handed a 19 week prison sentence and ordered to pay £154 victim surcharge. He was also ordered to register with police for seven years.
The court heard how on Monday 2 September 2024, Alotaibi was walking along the Central line carriage when he stopped and chose to sit down next to the lone woman despite many other seats being available.
He then placed a jacket over his lap and proceeded to sexually assault her. A fellow passenger sat opposite her mouthed to ask if she was ok, and with tears in her eyes the victim responded no.
The young woman moved away from Alotaibi to sit by the passenger who asked if she was okay, who then asked her if the man had done something to her. Bravely, the victim replied yes.
Alotaibi has then stood up to move away from the young woman and passenger, but was stopped by other men on board who prevented him from leaving the train and escaping.
The train arrived at Mile End where Alotaibi was arrested by officers.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Julie Skinner said: “Alotaibi acted in an abhorrent and predatory manner towards this young woman, but the selfless actions of those on the train who noticed something was wrong and offered to help her kept her safe from further assault and ensured we were able to arrest Alotaibi and bring him to justice.
“When a member of the public bravely intervenes to confront or call out callous behaviour and sexual assaults, it reminds the victim that they are not alone and helps to prevent further unacceptable behaviour. I thank everyone who supported this investigation and supported the victim, and I hope that this result can bring her some comfort.
“If you experience or witness a sexual offence on the railway network or in a station, I urge you to report it to us by texting 61016 – officers can deploy immediately and begin urgent enquiries to bring offenders to justice.”
Alotaibi Surname Meaning and Origin
The surname Alotaibi is of Arabic origin and is predominantly found in Saudi Arabia. It is derived from the personal name “Otaibah,” which refers to a tribe in the Arabian Peninsula. The name Alotaibi signifies a person’s association with or descent from the Otaibah tribe, which is known for its historical and cultural significance in the region. The tribal name is formally the diminutive of ʿatabah ‘threshold’. The Alotaibi family has a rich history and is associated with various occupations, including trade, agriculture, and military service, reflecting their adaptability and resilience in the harsh desert environment.