Rochdale's notorious grooming gang has once again sparked public outrage after the relocation of its leader, Shabir Ahmed, from Accrington, Lancashire. The decision comes following an intense backlash from local residents, community leaders, and MP Sarah Smith over his placement in a residential area housing children and vulnerable individuals.
Despite being released on licence at the beginning of July 2026 after serving a 22-year sentence for multiple counts of child rape and sexual offences, Ahmed's presence in Accrington proved to be a contentious issue. The Ghausia Rizvia Jamia Masjid & Islamic Centre's committee penned a letter to Lancashire Police, describing the situation as a "serious error of judgement" that threatened public safety and community cohesion.
Hyndburn MP Sarah Smith has expressed her "disgust" at Ahmed's initial placement in the community and reinforced calls for a wider exclusion zone to prevent his rehousing in Lancashire or the North West. The Ministry of Justice has confirmed Ahmed's relocation, but details surrounding his new accommodation remain undisclosed due to security concerns.
The complexities surrounding Ahmed's situation are further compounded by the fact that he was stripped of his UK passport following conviction. However, a 1971 law currently restricts his deportation due to provisions protecting Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK over 50 years ago. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has acknowledged mounting calls for Ahmed's deportation and announced plans to amend this legislation.
The re-emergence of Ahmed has reignited trauma for the victims of the Rochdale gang, with campaigners reporting that they feel "frightened for their lives." Supporters like Billy Howarth, who advocates for two of the victims, have expressed profound disappointment in the state's handling of the situation and remain committed to pressing for Ahmed's deportation. The Home Office has warned that any breach of Ahmed's strict licence conditions would result in his immediate return to prison.