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Gay couple 'thrown off London bus after driver's homophobic rant'

Transport for London are investigating the alleged incident

Matt Payton
Monday 05 September 2016 01:23 BST
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The alleged incident took place near Tottenham Court Road station
The alleged incident took place near Tottenham Court Road station (Google Maps)

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A gay couple have alleged they were forced off a London bus after the driver shouted homophobic remarks at them.

Theatre director Omar Okai, 51, and his partner said the incident occurred after an evening out in central London.

Mr Okai said they were "shocked and disgusted" when the driver shouted an innuedo-laden remark to them after they boarded the bus using the rear entrance.

They claim the driver said: "I bet you like it in the backdoor" during the alleged incident near Tottenham Court Road station.

Mr Okai and his partner have filed a formal complaint with Transport for London (TfL) and the police, The Evening Standard reports.

In a letter to TfL, he wrote: "I would like an explanation, not just an apology, as I will be taking it further.

“This kind of behaviour is not acceptable in any shape or form in Great Britain and as a British citizen born here, I am not accepting it.

"My partner and I were humiliated and intimidated, being made to leave the bus."

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Transport for London have said they are investigating what occured.

A spokesman said: "We are concerned to hear of this incident and are investigating it with Tower Transit, the operator of the 25 bus route.

“We expect the highest standard of public service from bus drivers."

The Independent have contacted Tower Transit for comment

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