Nigerian Woman Sentenced to Prison for Violent Train Incident in London
A 35-year-old Nigerian woman, Gloria Makanjuola, has been handed a nine-month jail term after being convicted of assault and attempted theft on a Central Line train in East London. The sentencing took place at Woolwich Crown Court on Thursday, February 19, 2026, following a thorough investigation by the British Transport Police (BTP).
Details of the Aggressive Assault and Robbery Attempt
The court proceedings revealed that the incident occurred just before midnight on Friday, March 3, 2023. The victim was traveling on an eastbound Central Line train to Hainault, quietly reading a newspaper, when Makanjuola sat down beside him and demanded money. She then began rummaging through his coat pocket, pulling out his phone and threatening to return it only if he provided her with cash.
As the victim tried to retrieve his phone, Makanjuola continued searching his pocket and extracted his wallet, taking £60 in cash and dropping the phone. The situation escalated when she started hitting him across his body in an effort to secure the wallet. In a particularly violent moment, she bent his fingers backwards, causing him to break free and run down the train, grabbing his phone as he fled.
Chase and Arrest Following the Disturbing Encounter
Makanjuola pursued the victim, tackling him to the ground near the train doors as it arrived at Hainault Underground station. After getting off him, she gathered her belongings and exited the station, leaving the victim to be assisted by members of the public and railway staff. It was then discovered that his phone had been smashed and broken during the altercation.
Officers near Hainault Underground station were promptly informed of the incident. At approximately 1 a.m., an officer at a nearby petrol station spotted a woman matching Makanjuola's description. She was quickly identified and arrested in connection with the crime. Makanjuola, who resides on Cranbrook Road in Ilford, later pleaded guilty to charges of assault and attempted theft.
Police Response and Public Safety Message
BTP Detective Sergeant Bronwyn Prew commented on the case, stating, "This was a targeted attack on a member of the public minding his own business, so I'm very pleased to see Makanjuola jailed for her erratic and aggressive behaviour." She emphasized that there is absolutely no place for violence, robbery, or theft on the railway network, and authorities will continue to prosecute those who engage in such criminal activities.
Detective Sergeant Prew also urged the public to report any incidents of robbery or assault on the railway. "If you see someone committing a robbery or an assault on the railway network, or are a victim of one yourself, we urge you to contact us by texting 61016 or by calling 0800 40 50 40 or speak to a member of staff so that we can act and get justice," she added.
The BTP disclosed these details in a statement issued on February 25, 2026, highlighting their commitment to ensuring safety and security for all commuters.
