A MAN linked to sexual exploitation has been banned from contacting vulnerable women.

Abdul Zahedian has been given a Sexual Risk Order, which imposes conditions aimed at protecting members of the public from sexual harm.

As part of a long-running investigation into the exploitation of vulnerable women and girls in the city, Brighton Magistrates’ Court enacted the order prohibiting the 63-year-old from contacting one specific woman, as well as any female recognised as vulnerable.

He is also banned from communicating in a sexual manner with vulnerable women not involved with him in a professional, vocational or educational capacity, inviting vulnerable women into a vehicle and driving unless he informs police.

The two-year order against Zahedian, of Alfriston Close in Brighton, will apply across the UK, and any breach could lead to a prison sentence of up to five years.

Detective Chief Inspector Jon Gillings, of Brighton and Hove’s Safeguarding Investigations Unit, said: “Sussex Police is committed to protecting vulnerable women and girls from exploitation and Sexual Risk Orders are vital in reducing perpetrators’ ability to cause harm without securing a conviction.

“We will always act proactively and use all the tools at our disposal to keep our communities safe.

“In this instance, the court recognised Zahedian poses a significant risk to vulnerable females, and we are pleased to now have these protective measures in place.”