Federal prosecutors have charged four former Uber drivers operating in the Houston area with kidnapping and attempting to sexually assault their passengers. The shocking allegations detail a pattern of predatory behaviour where the men allegedly exploited their positions to target vulnerable women.
Details of the Alleged Attacks
Cesar Martell, Barney Steve Flores, Janaka Manatunga and Abdou Mbacke are all facing federal kidnapping charges. Authorities state that each man used his Uber driver account to lure victims into their vehicles under the guise of a legitimate ride.
In the most recent incident, Abdou Mbacke is accused of picking up a heavily intoxicated 22-year-old woman in December 2023. Instead of taking her to her destination, he allegedly drove the unconscious passenger to a motel. The victim told investigators she awoke naked in a bed beside Mbacke. After she panicked and questioned him, he reportedly left the motel. Uber terminated his account the day the crime was reported. Investigators revealed Mbacke booked a one-way flight out of the United States on 24 July 2025 and his current whereabouts are unknown.
Cesar Martell was involved in two separate incidents, according to court documents. The first occurred in June 2021, when he allegedly drove a woman to an abandoned gas station and attempted to sexually assault and strangle her. She managed to escape from his car. In May 2023, he is accused of convincing another victim to contact him outside the Uber app for a cheaper fare, allowing him to pick her up without a trip record. He then allegedly kidnapped and sexually assaulted her. Martell was already on probation for prior charges of attempted aggravated sexual assault and attempted sexual assault at the time of his arrest.
Further Incidents and Arrests
In April 2025, Janaka Manatunga allegedly picked up a passenger, drove her to a parking garage, locked her in his car, and attempted to sexually assault her. Uber ended his contract after the victim came forward.
The case against Barney Steve Flores stems from a May 2025 incident where he allegedly confined a passenger in his car and tried to sexually assault her inside the vehicle while continuing to drive. The victim eventually escaped and contacted the police, leading to the immediate termination of his Uber contract.
Ongoing Investigation and Uber's Response
Federal officials confirmed that three of the four former drivers are now in custody, while the hunt for Abdou Mbacke remains active and ongoing.
In a statement, Uber said: "When we became aware of these allegations, we immediately banned the drivers involved and removed their access to the app." The company emphasised its 24/7 safety team, which includes former law enforcement, has been cooperating with federal prosecutors. Uber added that safety is fundamental to its operations and pledged continued investment in safety features and support for law enforcement.
These cases have ignited serious concerns about passenger safety within the ride-share industry, highlighting the critical importance of robust background checks and swift corporate action when allegations arise.
