AN Uxbridge man who used social media to try to meet teenagers for sex has been convicted at Isleworth Crown Court.

Mohamed Mohamoud, 31, of The Greenway, was found guilty yesterday (Tuesday) of two counts of inciting a child to engage in sexual activity and one of attempting to incite a child to commit sexual activity. He will be sentenced on May 3.

The charges related to three separate females, aged 14 or 15 at the time of the offences, with whom Mohamoud communicated in 2015 and 2016.

The jury heard how Mohamoud identified young females through Facebook and then contacted the victims seeking to obtain their phone numbers.

He subsequently made attempts to meet the girls for sexual activity, offering drugs and alcohol and the promise of taking them shopping.

Police were first alerted to him by a teacher at a secondary school in Hayes who had been told by a 14-year-old girl about messages she'd exchanged online.

Officers investigated and two further female victims were identified who had also been contacted by Mohamoud. Thankfully, none of them him.

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Mohamoud was arrested in July 2016. During the investigation and subsequent trial, he showed no remorse and attempted to blame others for his actions.

Det Con Mike Evans, of the Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command, said: "Through the courage of the three females who came forward to police - one of whom gave testimony in court - the jury heard evidence that proved Mohamoud's guilt.

"The voices of young people will be listened to, and victims will be supported to ensure those committing such offences are held to account.

"While the blame for such crimes lies solely with perpetrators such as Mohamoud, it is important that parents and children alike understand how to stay safe online.

"The three victims were saved from potentially coming to serious harm by following the golden rule - you should never meet anyone who you don't know and who has contacted you online.”

An NPSCC spokesperson said: “Mohamoud’s persistent advances are an all-too-familiar example of the way groomers target vulnerable victims online.

“Parents can help protect their children from predators like Mohamoud  by talking to them about the risks and how to keep themselves safe online. Tips can be found on www.nspcc.org.uk

“There is also a free online safety helpline on 0808 800 5002.”