Man who met child for sex convicted after police ambushed him outside station

A man has been sentenced after Met officers swooped in as he was on his way to meet a child for sex in south-east London.

Muhammed Zeeshan Ali, 33, had been talking to a 13-year-old girl on social media.

He had planned to meet the child outside the Canada Water subway station on February 7.

But the officers knew of his plan and ambushed him at the rendezvous point.

Ali, of Rotherhithe New Road in Southwark, tried to destroy evidence on his phone by smashing it on the floor as he was tackled by police, the court heard.

He was charged the next day and appeared at Croydon Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he pleaded guilty to attempting to have sexual intercourse with a child and attempting to meet a child for sexual grooming.

Detective Sergeant Callum Mantell, from the Met’s online child sexual abuse and exploitation team, said: “Ali is clearly a dangerous predator who used social media to try to sexually abuse a child.

“We carried out quick inquiries to identify him and ensure officers were waiting for him. Our investigation means he has been convicted and will now face the consequences of his actions.”

Ali was remanded in custody and will be sentenced at Inner London Crown Court at a later date.

If you have concerns about online child abuse, we urge you to call the police on 101 or 999 in an emergency – the police have specially trained officers who will listen and investigate where necessary.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous or report online. You can also report abuse and get help from the NSPCC – 0808 800 5000.