Eight men have received a combined prison sentence of nearly 58 years for a series of non-recent sexual offences against two young girls in Keighley, West Yorkshire. The offences, which occurred between 1996 and 1999, targeted girls aged 13 to 16 and were uncovered after the victims came forward to report the abuse.
Sentencing Details
The men were sentenced at Bradford Crown Court following two separate trials over the past two years. The convictions and sentences are as follows:
First Trial (Concluded 20 October 2023)
- Amreaz Asghar, 47, Keighley: 4.5 years for rape.
- Perwaz Asghar, 50, Nottingham: 6.5 years for two counts of indecent assault.
- Mohammed Din, 47, Keighley: 14 years for 11 counts of rape.
- Sajid Mahmood Khan, 45, Keighley: 3 years for rape.
- Zehroon Razak, 47, Keighley: 6.5 years for rape.
Second Trial (Concluded 13 December 2024)
- Fayaz Ahmed, 45, Bingley: 7.5 years for two counts of rape (sentenced in absence; a bench warrant has been issued for his arrest).
- Imtiaz Ahmed, 61, Keighley: 9 years for rape (sentenced in absence; a bench warrant has been issued for his arrest).
- Ibrar Hussain, 47, Keighley: 6.5 years for two counts of rape.
- A 47-year-old man who was deemed unfit to stand trial was found to have committed rape following a trial of facts. He will be sentenced at a later date.
Victim Testimonies and Investigation
The investigation began after one of the victims, now an adult, came forward to report the abuse. A second victim was identified during the inquiry, which was conducted by Bradford District’s Non-Recent Child Sexual Exploitation Team. The crimes primarily targeted one of the victims, with Mohammed Din convicted of offences against both.
Detective Chief Inspector Vicky Greenbank praised the victims for their bravery:
“The abuse both girls endured robbed them of their childhood. I hope these sentences bring them justice and some closure.”
The investigation involved extensive work over several years, including gathering witness testimonies, forensic evidence, and corroborating accounts.
Prosecution Statement
Michael Quinn of the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) condemned the actions of the perpetrators:
“These men deliberately targeted vulnerable young girls, exploiting their dependency on drugs and alcohol for their own gratification. Their actions were vile and horrific. The courage of the victims has been truly remarkable.”
Ongoing Efforts
Police have issued warrants for the arrests of Imtiaz Ahmed and Fayaz Ahmed and are continuing efforts to locate them.
West Yorkshire Police emphasized their commitment to tackling child exploitation and urged anyone with concerns or information to report them through their Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) portal.
Support services for those affected by child sexual abuse are also available via When You Are Ready.
Message to Victims
The CPS and police have reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing justice for survivors of child sexual abuse, no matter how long ago the offences occurred. Victims are encouraged to come forward and seek help and justice.
For more information or to report concerns, visit: