Pakistani Businessman Jailed in London over Gang Rape Threat to Flight Attendant
A 15-month prison sentence has been imposed on Salman Iftikhar, a Pakistani-origin London businessman, for threatening a Virgin Atlantic flight attendant with gang rape on a London-Lahore flight. The incident, which took place on February 7, 2023, was captured on video and has been widely shared online.
According to reports, Iftikhar was flying in first class when he became agitated and began shouting at the flight attendant. He threatened to gang rape her and her colleagues, sparking a heated confrontation. The video of the incident quickly went viral, sparking outrage and disbelief among those who saw it.
The incident occurred on a Virgin Atlantic flight from London to Lahore, with Iftikhar and the flight attendant engaging in a heated argument. Witnesses reported that Iftikhar was aggressive and threatening, shouting at the flight attendant and making explicit threats.
The flight attendant, who has chosen to remain anonymous, reported the incident to authorities as soon as the plane landed. Iftikhar was arrested and charged with making threats to commit a serious crime.
During his trial, Iftikhar claimed that he was drunk and did not remember making the threats. However, prosecutors presented evidence that suggested he was sober and aware of his actions.
Judge Ian Patience, presiding over the case, called Iftikhar’s behavior “appalling” and “entirely unacceptable.” He sentenced Iftikhar to 15 months in prison, with an additional 30 days suspended sentence.
In a statement, Virgin Atlantic expressed their support for the flight attendant and condemned Iftikhar’s behavior. “We are shocked and saddened by the behavior of this passenger,” the airline said. “We take the safety and well-being of our crew and passengers extremely seriously, and we will not tolerate any behavior that compromises that safety.”
The incident has sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, with many calling for Iftikhar to be held accountable for his actions. The case has also raised concerns about the rise of sexual harassment and assault on public transportation.
Iftikhar’s sentence is seen as a significant step towards holding perpetrators of sexual harassment and assault accountable. However, many are calling for further action to be taken to address the root causes of this behavior and to create a safer and more respectful environment for all passengers and crew.
In a statement, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said that they took the case “extremely seriously” and were committed to ensuring that those who commit sexual harassment and assault are held accountable.
“We will always do everything in our power to ensure that those who commit such crimes are brought to justice,” the CPS said. “We will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure that victims of sexual harassment and assault receive the support and justice they deserve.”
The case has also sparked a wider conversation about the need for greater awareness and education on sexual harassment and assault. Many are calling for greater action to be taken to address this issue, including increased training for airline staff and passengers, as well as greater support for victims of sexual harassment and assault.
As the world grapples with the issue of sexual harassment and assault, this case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of respect and consent. It is a powerful reminder of the need for greater awareness and education on this issue, and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
