A man has been convicted of rape after targeting a woman who had become lost after a cab dropped her off to the wrong destination.

Danut Bulboana, 21, came across the victim, 29, and sexually assaulted her on August 27 of last year.

The court heard that the victim was subjected to a serious sexual assault in a wooded area near Catford Bridge Railway Station, at around 11.30 pm.

MORE: Man convicted for Catford rape of woman dropped to wrong destination by cab

The victim recalled suddenly finding herself in an unfamiliar wooded area with an unknown male - later identified as Bulboana.

The sexual attack then took place.

She tried to scream but Bulboana stifled her cries by forcing something into her mouth, choking her.

After attacking the victim, Bulboana walked her to Catford Bridge railway station. She was able to call the police from there.

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Police attended and spoke to the victim who then assisted the officers in trying to locate where the offence took place.

In doing so, they were able to trace Bulboana’s location and, despite altering his appearance by changing his clothing, the woman was able to provide a positive identification and Bulboana was arrested.

Officers from the Met’s South East Safeguarding Team launched an immediate investigation and were able to charge Bulboana on October 25, 2019, after forensic examinations linked him to the crime.

He was convicted of two counts of rape and attempting to suffocate with intent following a trial at Woolwich Crown Court, which concluded on August 3.

He will be sentenced at Woolwich Crown Court, on September 8.

Detective Constable Dean Young, who led the investigation, said:

This was a brutal and extremely sinister attack in which Bulboana preyed on the vulnerability of a lone woman at night.

"I would like to commend the sheer bravery displayed by the victim who quickly called police after being subjected to a truly horrific ordeal.

"Her actions resulted in a dangerous man being detained by officers within an hour of the attack, and subsequently being brought to justice.

“Bulboana is now in custody awaiting sentence for his abhorrent crimes.

"Sexual offences often inflict lasting trauma on victims, but I hope that Bulboana’s conviction will help the victim’s recovery process.

“This case demonstrates our commitment to removing sexual predators from the streets of London and ensuring they are brought to justice.

"If you are a victim of sexual crime, please tell us - you will be supported and the crime fully investigated.”