Emem Udaw

Emem Udaw, a 50-year-old former children's mentor from south London, was convicted at Isleworth Crown Court on 15 December 2025 of 14 counts of indecent assault on a girl under 16, following a three-week trial. The offences, which dated back more than two decades, involved five victims who were all in their early teens at the time and occurred at Holland Park Secondary School where Udaw worked between 2001 and 2004.

The Metropolitan Police investigation, known as Operation RoseQuartz, began in 2019 after one victim posted about inappropriate behaviour by a former school employee in a closed social media group. This prompted several women to share similar experiences, leading three victims to report the abuse to police in January 2020. Two additional victims came forward in August and November 2020, resulting in further interviews with Udaw. Despite denying all allegations and claiming he acted solely as a role model, Udaw was charged with 21 offences on 1 July 2024.

Investigators detailed how Udaw exploited his mentoring role to isolate the victims during one-on-one sessions. He encouraged them to skip lessons, took them to empty classrooms, and sometimes locked doors. Under the pretext of providing emotional support, he made sexualised comments, asked personal questions, touched victims in intimate areas, kissed them, and forced them to sit on his lap. These acts were repeated often during school hours, targeting vulnerable young girls who trusted him in his position.

Detective Constable Sandy Whysall, who led the investigation, stated: “Udaw is a predatory offender who abused his position of trust to target vulnerable young girls during school hours. His conviction today sends a clear message: no matter how much time has passed, we will relentlessly pursue those who commit sexual offences against children.” The victims' bravery in coming forward was commended, as it secured justice and protected others from a dangerous individual.

Udaw, of Knollmead, Tolworth, was found guilty by a jury on Monday, 15 December 2025. He was scheduled to be sentenced at the same court on Thursday, 29 January 2026.