A Sudanese migrant has been arrested in Toulouse after allegedly carrying out a series of sexual assaults against young women and minors on one of the city’s major bus lines over nearly three years.
The 54-year-old, who was already known to police, was detained on Thursday following an investigation into attacks reported between December 2023 and June 2026. He admitted the alleged offenses while in custody, according to La Dépêche.
Investigators say the suspect repeatedly targeted young women traveling alone between the Arènes metro station and Colomiers International High School.
French media reported how his method had stayed consistent as he sought to isolate the women before the assaults. He would sit beside a victim, press his body against her to restrict her movement, and then touch her thighs while concealing his actions from other passengers.
At least three women filed formal complaints, although warnings about the man had reportedly circulated among female students on social media for some time. Actu reported that one alleged victim was just 14 when she was assaulted, while the others were also young women.
Police identified the suspect by comparing the victims’ descriptions, reviewing public transportation surveillance footage, and conducting interviews. His repeated use of the same bus route and method ultimately helped investigators locate him.
During questioning, the man reportedly confessed to the assaults attributed to him.
Prosecutors have ordered a psychiatric examination to assess his mental condition. Should he be found to be suffering from mental illness, a court could rule that he is not criminally responsible for his actions. This regularly results in suspects avoiding prison in exchange for psychiatric confinement.
Depending on the expert’s findings, the suspect could face an expedited court hearing or be released from custody.
