Mohamad Sabbagh was found guilty on 1 August following a trial at the High Court in Edinburgh.

The 40-year-old offered his victim and her friend a lift home following a night out in the capital city on 1 May 2022. Believing he was a genuine taxi driver, the two women got into the car before one was dropped off at her home address.

Sabbagh then drove his vulnerable victim to a secluded location and demanded she have sex with him. He climbed into the back of the car and raped her while she was intoxicated and incapable of giving or withholding consent.

On 28 August, at the High Court in Edinburgh, Sabbagh was sentenced to seven years’ imprisonment.

His name has been added to the sex offenders register indefinitely. A non-harassment order, banning Sabbagh from contacting or attempting to contact his victim, was also granted for an indefinite period.

Scotland’s procurator fiscal for High Court sexual offending, Katrina Parkes, said: “Mohamad Sabbagh is a predatory individual who poses a danger to women. The bravery of his victim has resulted in this conviction, and he will now face the consequences of his depraved behaviour.

“We hope his conviction sends a clear message that the COPFS is committed to prosecuting sexual offences.

“I would encourage anyone affected by similar offending to come forward. You will be listened to and we will seek to secure justice, ensuring that those responsible are identified and held accountable.”