…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
Agnieszka Narczynska, a 34-year-old facility management technician, has issued a warning to other women after being harassed and photographed on a late-night train journey.
She was travelling alone on a ScotRail service between Glasgow and Lanark at around 11 pm on April 4th when the male passenger began to make advances towards her.
The man started calling her “gorgeous” and took pictures of her on his phone, causing Agnieszka to feel increasingly uncomfortable.
She tried to deter him by texting and calling a friend, but he refused to back off.
Approaching Strangers for Help
Agnieszka was forced to approach a group of strangers for help when the man continued to harass her.
She feared that he would follow her home, so she told the young men who had boarded the train why she was worried.
The group of strangers offered to help Agnieszka and one of them claimed to have witnessed the man watching porn on his phone.
Agnieszka made it home safely and has thanked the strangers who helped her.
Impact on Agnieszka
Despite getting home safely, Agnieszka claimed that the incident has left her feeling uncomfortable and helpless.
She is now afraid to travel alone and hopes that sharing her story will help others.
The incident has been reported to both ScotRail and the British Transport Police (BTP).
Commentary
It is incredibly worrying that a woman travelling alone on a train had to endure harassment and unwanted advances from a male passenger.
The fact that the man took pictures of her without her consent is especially concerning.
It is commendable that Agnieszka had the presence of mind to seek help from strangers and that they were willing to offer their assistance.
However, it is concerning that women still have to resort to such measures to ensure their safety in public spaces.
This incident highlights the need for more awareness and action to address sexual harassment and assault on public transport.
It is essential that transport companies, authorities, and society as a whole work together to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone.