Children's mentor convicted of 14 charges of sexual assault against former students

A south London children's mentor has been convicted of 14 sexual offences against former students following a Met Police investigation into historic child sexual abuse dating back more than two decades.

On Monday, 15 December, a jury at Isleworth Crown Court found Emem Udaw, 50 (28.01.75), of Knollmead, Tolworth, guilty after a three-week trial. Udaw was convicted of 14 counts of indecent assault on a girl under 16.

The offences relate to five victims, all in their early teens at the time, and took place at Holland Park Secondary School between 2001 and 2004 where Udaw worked as a children's mentor. He will be sentenced at the same court on Thursday, 29 January.

Detective Constable Sandy Whysall, who led the investigation, said: “Udaw is a predatory offender who abused his position of trust to target vulnerable young girls during school hours. His conviction today sends a clear message: no matter how much time has passed, we will relentlessly pursue those who commit sexual offences against children.

“The victims were always at the heart of this investigation and we commend their bravery for coming forward. Their courage not only secured justice but will help protect others and has ensured that a dangerous individual is held accountable.”

The case first came to light in 2019, when a victim posted in a closed social media group about inappropriate behaviour by a former school employee. Several women recognised the description and privately shared similar experiences, which ultimately led to three victims reporting the abuse to the police in January 2020. Two further victims came forward in August and November 2020, prompting additional interviews with Udaw. Despite denying all allegations and claiming he acted as a role model. Udaw was charged with 21 offences on 1 July 2024.

Investigators revealed that Udaw exploited his mentoring role to isolate victims during one-on-one sessions. He encouraged them to skip lessons, took them to empty classrooms, and sometimes locked doors. He made sexualised comments, asked personal questions, and then touched victims under the guise of comfort—in intimate areas and kissed them. He also forced victims to sit on his lap. These acts were carried out repeatedly, often during school hours, and under the pretext of providing emotional support.

Anyone with information or wishing to report offences relating to Udaw can call 101 quoting Op RoseQuartz, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. For confidential help, the 24/7 Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Line offers free phone and online chat for anyone aged 16+ in England and Wales: 0808 500 2222 or visit 247sexualabusesupport.org.uk.

Note to editors

A custody image of Udaw dating from 2002 is available via this link: https://mps.box.com/s/z723jbo0bel8g8k5q55onct8qt41kt6c

Please note that the custody image was taken in the context of a public order offence unrelated to this case. We have chosen to use it as it best reflects what Udaw looked like around the time of his offending.