AN UNLICENSED cab driver has finally faced justice more than five years after indecently assaulting a woman.

Karim Merali, 48, attacked his 30-year-old victim from Sidcup after picking her up from central London in September 2002.

He was only caught when detectives matched his DNA profile to the crime in 2006 after arresting him for operating the unlicenced taxi.

Merali was jailed for four years on Wednesday at Woolwich Crown Court.

Investigating officer, Det Con Peter Thompson said: "Merali committed this serious offence whilst in a position of trust, posing as a mini-cab driver. He is a clear threat to women and the seriousness of this offence is reflected in the sentence handed down by the judge."

His victim had been out clubbing in Covent Garden but lacking the money to make it home she went to an area where she knew she could arrange a cheap ride home, the court heard

Merali of Stanmore, Middlesex, agreed a £20 fare and drove his victim back to Sidcup.

She fell asleep in the cab and later woke to find the driver kneeling over her. She was able to get home and then reported the incident to police.

Det Con Thompson added: "The victim has had to relieve the ordeal from six years ago and I pay tribute to her courage and strength."