Manhunt for sex attacker taxi driver who’s sentence was increased at court of appeal

Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Tuesday 4th March 2025, at 15:35hrs

A Gloucester taxi driver who sexually assaulted a sleeping passenger has had his “unduly lenient” suspended sentence dramatically overturned, now facing four years behind bars.

Taranjit Singh, also known as Tony, 50, is currently a on the run and is believed to have fled the country after his sentence was increased, sparking a international manhunt.

In a shocking breach of trust, Singh, who was found guilty of three counts of sexual assault, picked up a vulnerable woman in November 2021 and instead of taking her home, drove her to a secluded industrial estate. The victim awoke to find him sexually assaulting her.

Initially, Gloucester Crown Court handed down a mere 24-month suspended sentence, a decision that sparked outrage and prompted the Attorney General’s Office to intervene.

The Court of Appeal, agreeing that the original sentence was far too lenient, increased it to four years’ imprisonment on Tuesday, January 21st.

“We felt strongly that the suspended sentence imposed following the trial did not adequately reflect the seriousness of the offence or the significant impact upon the victim,” stated Anita Hudson, Senior Crown Prosecutor for Crown Prosecution Service South West.

The increased sentence also includes a lifetime placement on the sex offenders’ register, an indefinite restraining order preventing any contact with the victim, and a 10-year ban from driving taxis.

However, Singh’s attempt to evade justice began the day after the Court of Appeal’s decision, with a warrant issued for his arrest. It is now believed he has fled the UK.

Detective Constable Annabel Brittain condemned Singh’s actions, stating, “Singh’s disappearance is cowardly, but I am hopeful that he will soon be located so he can begin his sentence behind bars.”

She emphasized the force’s commitment to bringing offenders to justice and supporting victims.

“We work tirelessly to ensure individuals like Singh are put before the courts and victims receive the justice they deserve,” she said. “I am pleased to see that Singh’s sentence has now been increased to reflect the severity of his offences. This is welcomed by the victim, and I hope too this is reassuring to members of the public while deterring offenders.”

The victim, who has shown immense bravery throughout the ordeal, is said to be relieved with the revised sentence.

Authorities are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to Singh’s arrest. Anyone with information is urged to contact the police immediately.

If you have experienced rape, sexual assault or abuse, you can report it to the police by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

You can also report sexual offences online: https://orlo.uk/KMkKY. Support is also available from the Gloucestershire Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre: https://orlo.uk/7BYGe.