A drunk man devoured two litres of vodka before attacking passengers and staff.

Ali Hoque, 27, of Ilford, punched a Tube passenger and racially abused a British Transport Police (BTP) officer.

He called the officer a 'Taliban Terrorist' as he was being arrested.

Hoque appeared at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court on August 5 for his crimes on July 14 at Bethnal Green station. He was handed a 12-month prison sentence, suspended for 24 months.

PC Luke Dear, from BTP, said: “Hoque’s excuse of drinking excessive amounts of vodka is inexcusable.

"His violent and offensive actions were totally unacceptable.

“Violence on the rail network, particularly against members of staff who are simply doing their job, will never be tolerated.

“I hope that this sentence acts as a clear warning to Hoque, further such behaviour will result in him spending time behind bars.”

His rampage in July began when he stumbled into the station and walked in a "haphazard way" towards the ticket barrier.

A concerned Transport for London (TfL) staff member asked if he wanted some fresh air before getting on the Tube.

Hoque then barged into the staff booth, grabbed a member of staff and threatened to kill him - before leaving and making his way to the platform, where he punched a passenger and racially abused the police officer.

He was admitted two counts of assault by beating and one count of a racially aggravated public order offence.

Siwan Hayward, TFL’s Director of Compliance and Policing, said: “Hoque’s behaviour was disgusting and an unacceptable way to behave towards our staff and customers.

“Everyone has the right to go about their day without fear or intimidation and we do not tolerate any form of physical or verbal assault.”