A deeply unsettling scenario is unfolding in Rochdale, where a notorious figure from the town's dark past is poised to be released from prison. Shabir Ahmed, a key ringleader of the infamous grooming gang, is set to walk free this week after serving time for multiple counts of rape and sexual offences against vulnerable young girls.
While his British citizenship was revoked following conviction in 2012, documents obtained by the Probation Service suggest that Ahmed's deportation to Pakistan remains a complex issue. The Immigration Act 1971 is cited as the primary obstacle, due to its provisions restricting the removal of individuals who entered the UK before 1973 and resided here for five years or more before deportation consideration.
Victims of Ahmed's abuse, including those identified by 'Ruby', a courageous woman supported by the Maggie Oliver Foundation, have expressed their deepest fears about his impending release. They are concerned not only for their own safety but also that of their families due to Ahmed's established connections across Rochdale, Oldham, and Middleton.
Andy Burnham, a Labour politician who has previously spoken out against grooming gangs as the Mayor of Greater Manchester in 2022, is now calling on the Home Secretary and Foreign Secretary to conduct an urgent review into potential avenues for deporting Ahmed. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he reiterated his commitment to protecting victims and ensuring justice is served, stating that 'victims must come first' and 'nothing is off the table' in this review.
Justice Minister Jake Richards acknowledged the long-standing challenges facing foreign national offenders seeking deportation to Pakistan. He noted that efforts are being made to address these issues but expressed doubt about the likelihood of successful deportation in Ahmed's case due to legal complexities. Mr Richards also highlighted the government's focus on safeguarding victim safety and community protection upon Ahmed's release.
The Home Office has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring Ahmed is held accountable for his crimes, describing them as 'appalling'. Upon release, he will be subject to stringent licence conditions, including an initial requirement to reside in supervised accommodation 24/7 and an exclusion zone centred on Rochdale to limit his movements.
It's worth noting that Ahmed was sentenced to 19 years in jail as part of the 2012 trial involving nine men convicted for their roles in the Rochdale grooming gang. The case exposed a deeply disturbing pattern of abuse affecting at least five girls, with police estimates suggesting up to 50 victims.
The Home Office has confirmed that Ahmed will be subject to licence conditions post-release, including an initial requirement to reside in supervised accommodation 24/7 and an exclusion zone centred on Rochdale to limit his movements. Ahmed was sentenced to 19 years in jail as part of the 2012 trial involving nine men convicted for their roles in the Rochdale grooming gang.