Full Breakdown
Federal Charges Filed Against Four Uber Drivers for Kidnapping and Sexual Assault
1/17/2026, 7:42:46 AM
Overview of the Allegations
Four former Uber drivers in the Houston area—Cesar Martell, Barney Steve Flores, Janaka Manatunga, and Abdou Mbacke—have been federally indicted on charges of kidnapping and sexually assaulting passengers. The allegations involve using their positions as rideshare drivers to target vulnerable women, often those who were intoxicated. The U.S. Attorney's Office has stated that these are the first federal kidnapping charges against rideshare drivers in such cases.
Details of the Incidents
The incidents span from 2021 to 2025. In December 2023, Mbacke allegedly picked up a 22-year-old woman who was incapacitated due to alcohol and drove her to a motel instead of her intended destination. The victim reported waking up next to Mbacke, disoriented and without clothing. Following the report, Uber terminated Mbacke's account, and he subsequently fled the U.S. on a one-way flight.
Martell faces multiple allegations, including a June 2021 incident where he allegedly attempted to strangle and sexually assault a woman at an abandoned gas station. He is also accused of a May 2023 assault after persuading another victim to contact him outside the Uber app for a discounted ride. Manatunga is charged with an April 2025 incident where he allegedly confined a woman in his car and attempted to assault her. Flores is linked to a May 2025 incident where he allegedly confined a passenger and attempted to sexually assault her while driving.
Arrests and Current Status
As of now, three of the four accused drivers are in custody, while Mbacke remains at large. Federal authorities have initiated a manhunt for him, and he is also wanted on state charges related to the same incident. The FBI has urged potential victims to come forward and report any incidents involving rideshare drivers.
Official Statements and Responses
Uber has responded to the allegations by stating that safety is fundamental to their operations. The company confirmed that it banned the involved drivers and removed their access to the app immediately upon learning of the allegations. Uber's global team, which includes former law enforcement professionals, is actively assisting with investigations.
U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei emphasized the seriousness of the charges, stating, "When a driver abuses his trust by using his position of power to sexually assault a passenger, particularly one that is incapacitated or otherwise unable of defending themselves, they cease being providers and become predators."
Criticism and Opposition
While the federal charges mark a significant step in addressing sexual assault by rideshare drivers, critics argue that Uber's safety measures have been insufficient in preventing such incidents. The company has faced scrutiny in the past for its handling of sexual assault allegations, and this case has reignited discussions about the need for stronger safety protocols within the rideshare industry.
What's Next
The cases against Martell, Flores, and Manatunga are progressing through the federal court system, with hearings scheduled in the coming weeks. Authorities continue to investigate and are actively seeking additional victims who may have experienced similar assaults by rideshare drivers. The FBI has established a hotline for reporting such incidents, emphasizing the importance of bringing justice to victims.
