Man admits racially abusing bus driver and spitting at his cab

Michael Mongan spat at the bus driver’s cab a number of times while shouting Islamophobic abuse and other threats.

Michael Mongan (Metropolitan Police/PA)

A man has pleaded guilty to racially abusing a bus driver and spitting at his cab.

The driver refused to let Michael Mongan board in Coldharbour Lane, Hayes, west London, as he did not have the money to pay for his journey, the Metropolitan Police said.

Mongan spat at the bus driver’s cab a number of times while shouting Islamophobic abuse and other threats, the force added.

Police were called about the incident at 12.25pm on Wednesday.

I hope the fast response from our officers sends a clear message that we will act to hold those who behave in this way to account

Detective Inspector Jonathan Potter

A video of the incident was widely shared on social media. Mongan was identified and arrested on Friday.

He was charged with a racially aggravated public order offence and criminal damage.

Mongan, 39, of Castle Road, Ealing, pleaded guilty to both charges at Uxbridge Magistrates’ Court on Saturday, the Met said.

He was remanded in custody for sentencing at the same court on Tuesday.

Detective Inspector Jonathan Potter, of the Roads and Transport Policing Command, said: “The bus driver who was racially abused and spat at by Michael Mongan was simply doing his job.

“He and all other staff who work across London’s transport network have a right to do so in safety, free from unacceptable threats and intimidation.

“I hope the fast response from our officers sends a clear message that we will act to hold those who behave in this way to account.

“I’m glad Mongan has been swiftly brought to justice and will now face the consequences of his actions.”