A MAN who attacked and sexually assaulted a woman in an Ealing street has been jailed after being found guilty following a trial.

Rafiul Akbar, 36 (01.01.80), of Lakeside Drive, Park Royal was jailed for 42 months on Thursday, 24 November after being found guilty of sexual assault at Isleworth Crown Court.

The court heard how Akbar struck in the early hours of 17 December 2015 after his victim - a female aged in her 20s - was walking home after getting off the tube at Hanger Lane underground station.

As she walked in Hanger Lane at approximately 1am, Akbar grabbed her from behind and pulled her to the ground before sexually assaulting her. He then ran off from the scene.

The victim reported the attack to police and an investigation was launched. Officers studied CCTV to identify witnesses and began to piece together evidence about what had happened.

Akbar was identified as a suspect and arrested on 31 December.

Detective Constable Hannah Rudd, who led the investigation by Ealing Borough, said"The jailing of Akbar sends out a strong message to anyone committing this type of offence that they will be investigated, charged and put before the courts to face the consequences of their actions.

"I would like to praise the victim for having the strength to support this investigation - I can only hope this conclusion can help her move on from the events of that night."