A HAMPSHIRE man who performed a sex act in front of children while travelling on a train told rail staff he could do what he wanted because he was a naturist.

Wesley Mustapha was arrested by police at Southampton Central Railway Station after travellers spotted him fondling himself on a busy Sunday morning train.

Shocked onlookers urged Mustapha to stop as children as young as 10 were in the same carriage.

Mustapha, who pleaded not guilty to exposure, told officers: “I do what I want with my body. I understand my actions may upset people. But I am very liberal.”

During Mustapha’s trial at Southampton Magistrates’ Court, which he did not attend, the court heard that he boarded the train at Bournemouth.

Witness Shane Dartmoor, a bartender, told the court that he saw the defendant had his trousers around his knees.

He said: “He didn’t really seem to see what he was doing as wrong.

“All I thought about was the other women and children in the carriage.”

Mr Dartmoor added: “It was disgusting.”

South West Train staff John Donohue and Paul Clyde were alerted to Mustapha’ actions by Mr Dartmoor.

Prosecutor Natalie Angel, said that when Mr Clyde approached Mustapha, the passenger had said: “What’s the problem – I’m a naturist. I can do what I want’.”

Mr Donohue and Mr Clyde alert authorities who then arrested Mustapha in Southampton.

Mustapha, of Old School Drive, Hayling Island was found guilty of exposure by magistrates.

A warrant for his arrest has been issued.