Officers from British Transport Police’s Major, Serious and Organised Crime Unit have been recognised for their outstanding work to secure a conviction against a man who sexually assaulted a vulnerable young victim on the railway network.
DC Elizabeth Cahill, DC Nicola Juniper, DC Matthew Saunders and DC Lee Smith received the Detective Investigation of the Year award at BTP Federation’s Awards of Excellence in Glasgow.
In June 2025, a 13-year-old girl was subjected to a series of serious sexual offences whilst travelling alone on a train from Essex to London. The investigation required sensitivity, care and determination, alongside detailed evidence-gathering and close partnership working with the Crown Prosecution Service, social services, the victim’s school and other agencies.
Despite significant challenges, including complex disclosure issues and demanding timescales, the team maintained momentum. Colleagues stepped in where needed, reviewed large volumes of material under pressure and worked closely with prosecutors to ensure the case was trial-ready.
Their collective work resulted in a successful prosecution and a substantial custodial sentence, removing a dangerous individual from the railway network and providing justice for a vulnerable victim.
Abdulmanon Aliev was convicted of six of the seven charges he faced, including Attempted Rape, two counts of Sexual Assault by Penetration and three counts of Sexual Assault. On 23 June 2026, he was sentenced to 12 years' imprisonment with a further two years on licence.
Stuart Cowan, Chair of the British Transport Police Federation, said: “This case demonstrates the very best of British Transport Police. The officers shared a determination to bring justice for this young victim and protect the wider public. They should be incredibly proud of their teamwork, professional integrity and innovation in their investigation; we certainly are.”
“Our thoughts remain with the young girl who bravely reported her attacker to our colleagues. We hope she can recover from this ordeal.”
Pictured from left to right: Andy Picton from Police Friendly (sponsor), Tricia Hayes CB, Chair of British Transport Police Authority, Award winners DC Matthew Saunders, DC Lee Smith, DC Elizabeth Cahill and DC Nicola Juniper, and Stuart Cowan, Chair of BTP Federation.
