Cab driver on bail after teen admits she wanted to be 'kidnapped and killed'
Alleged sexual assault occurred during a mutually planned encounter
A 30-year-old Bolt driver accused of sexually assaulting a teenager has been granted bail after the minor gave complex testimony, admitting under oath that she had initially hoped to be abducted and killed.
Amir Hussein, a Pakistani national, is pleading not guilty to the sexual assault of the 17-year-old girl.
Taking the stand, the teenager explained that the incident began in Paola following a heated argument with her friend.
In a state of psychological distress, she experienced thoughts of wanting to be abducted and killed and subsequently booked a Bolt ride to return to her home in Santa Lucija.
The minor testified that she intentionally misled the driver during this initial trip because, at the time, she "wanted to be kidnapped and killed".
However, the court heard that the alleged sexual assault occurred during a second encounter, which had been planned by both parties.
According to the witness, Hussein drove her to an area near the Blue Grotto cliffs, where he parked the vehicle.
The teenager said the driver's intentions were purely sexual, testifying that he asked her to kiss him before initiating further non-consensual sexual advances.
The court upheld the defence's request for bail, releasing Hussein under strict monitoring conditions. The accused is required to sign the bail book daily and adhere to a curfew between 9pm and 7am.
Bail was set at a €3,000 deposit and a €5,000 personal guarantee.
Lawyer Nicholas Mifsud appeared for the accused.