Lutfullah Elham

A man from Pontypool has been imprisoned following two separate sexual assaults on young women at a local train station. Lutfullah Elham, aged 42, targeted lone females in broad daylight, demonstrating a disturbing pattern of predatory behaviour.

The first incident occurred on Thursday, 9 June 2022, when Elham approached a 19-year-old woman at Pontypool Railway Station. He asked her for directions, but then sexually assaulted her. The victim attempted to flee, and Elham panicked and departed the scene when a passing vehicle slowed down, alerting him to potential witnesses.

• Elham's actions were described in court as 'preying on his victims'.
• The assaults took place just days apart, highlighting the rapid escalation of his offending.

Just six days later, on Wednesday, 15 June 2022, at approximately 10am, Elham struck again. While riding his bicycle near the station, he approached a woman in her twenties who was walking away from the platform. He grabbed her and attempted to kiss her forcibly. The victim managed to break free and escape.

These events were heard at Newport Magistrates’ Court. Investigating officer DC Chris Bolton of British Transport Police commented: “These two incidents show an alarming pattern of behaviour from Elham, preying on lone young women going about their business. Elham will have the chance to consider his actions while serving time in prison. We take all reports of sexual assault seriously and with the full support of victims in these cases we can rest assured that Elham will not be able to harm anyone else.”

Elham, residing at Llandegfedd Way in New Inn, Pontypool, was sentenced to 12 months in prison. Additionally, he is required to register as a sex offender for 10 years, ensuring ongoing monitoring to protect the public. The case was investigated by British Transport Police, who emphasised their commitment to supporting victims of sexual offences.