BREAKING: Four rideshare drivers have been federally indicted for kidnapping and sexually assaulting passengers in the Houston area, authorities confirm. The shocking charges were announced on Thursday afternoon, with federal officials stating that the men could face life sentences if convicted.
Court documents identify the accused as Abdou Mbacke, Cesar Martell, Janaka Manatunga, and Barney Flores. Three of the men have already been arrested, while Mbacke remains at large. The FBI is actively searching for him and urges any potential victims to come forward.
At a news conference, U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei emphasized the dangerous nature of these crimes, warning that convenience should never be confused with safety. “When a driver abuses his trust by using his position of power to sexually assault a passenger, particularly one that is incapacitated, they cease being providers and become predators,” Ganjei stated.
Officials detailed specific allegations against the accused. Mbacke is charged with kidnapping a woman and taking her to a motel for sexual assault in December 2023. Flores allegedly sexually assaulted a passenger in May 2025. Martell faces two counts of kidnapping for separate incidents in 2021 and 2023, both involving sexual assault and strangulation. Manatunga is charged with kidnapping and sexual assault of a passenger in April 2025.
The launch of Operation Light House aims to combat the increasing incidents of sexual assault by rideshare drivers. Ganjei stressed the initiative’s goal of delivering justice and raising awareness. “We will find you. We will arrest you, and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law,” he asserted.
The FBI is calling on anyone who may have been victimized by these drivers or any rideshare drivers who have faced assault from passengers to report their experiences. Victims are encouraged to reach out to the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or visit Tips.FBI.Gov to make a report.
This alarming situation highlights a critical safety issue within the rideshare industry and serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that passengers may face. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are determined to uncover any additional victims and hold the perpetrators accountable.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story and follow Daniela Hurtado on social media for the latest information.
