Emma, a sexual assault survivor, is still waiting for a formal apology from the Thames Lido where she met her abuser, Toshihide Nukui, a masseuse who attacked five women in Reading in 2018 and 2019. The victim believes that if the lido had taken appropriate action when earlier complaints were made, her assault could have been prevented. Thames Lido has responded that it had acted appropriately when allegations of abuse were brought to its notice and has reviewed its policies and procedures to ensure safety of its customers.
Emma and her legal team believe that other opportunities were missed to catch Nukui before he attacked her. Two separate women had complained of assault by him nearly a year before he sexually assaulted Emma. The former victim spoke up, but felt that no one was listening to her at the time. David McClenaghan, Emma’s solicitor, has urged the Thames Lido to provide a written apology to Emma, arguing that its failure allowed her assault to happen.
Four of Nukui’s victims were targeted at Thames Lido where Emma first met Nukui after which he suggested a private appointment at The Therapy Centre. Emma has seen Nukui jailed and been compensated by the lido, but has never received a formal written apology unlike the other victims. The Therapy Centre, where Nukui sexually assaulted Emma, declined to provide any further comment.
Emma encourages other potential victims to speak out if they have been assaulted, saying that her assault still affects her, years later. Nukui was sentenced to five years for his crimes in July 2022. Thames Lido expressed its sympathy for the victims of Nukui’s conduct and remains committed to the safety and welfare of its guests.
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