Encrypted files expose predator: Indian-origin brothers jailed in UK, one for 22 years, other for indecent child images

Mobile for repair reveals sex assaults, gets Indian-origin brothers jailed in UK

A routine mobile phone repair led to the conviction and sentencing of Vruj Patel, 26, to 22 years in prison for a string of horrific sexual offenses, including the rape of a child under 13 and the rape of an adult woman. The sentencing took place on October 7, 2025, at Snaresbrook Crown Court.

The investigation began in early 2024 when a device belonging to Patel’s older brother, Kishan Patel, 31, was taken for repair. A technician discovered hidden, encrypted files containing videos of child sexual abuse.

Metropolitan Police detectives were quickly involved, identifying Vruj Patel as the perpetrator when his face briefly appeared in one of the recordings. Further searches uncovered an archive of his crimes, including:

Footage of Vruj Patel raping a young woman after a university night out. Voyeuristic videos involving another young girl.

Convictions and sentencing details
Vruj Patel pleaded guilty to 17 charges, including:

• Rape of a child under 13 and related serious sexual offenses involving one victim.
• Rape and sexual assault of a woman over 16.
• Possession of indecent images of children and voyeurism.
• In addition to the 22-year sentence, Vruj Patel was permanently placed on the UK’s sex offenders’ register.

Police statement

Detective Sergeant Rob Blant, who led the investigation, described the offender: “Patel is a cowardly, opportunistic offender who has preyed on vulnerable victims for his own sexual gratification. The threat he poses to women and children has been reflected in his sentence...”

Police are concerned that Vruj Patel’s offending, which dates back to 2018, may have continued more recently. Detectives are appealing for further victim-survivors to come forward, particularly those who may have been in his care at his home or relatives’ homes.

Authorities urge anyone with information to contact police online or call 101, quoting “Operation Castline.”