A trusted private tutor who abused his position to sexually assault young girls for more than a decade has been jailed for 14 years.

Groomed Pupils in His Care

Umair Iqbal, 37, from Manchester, worked as both a Quran and maths tutor. He exploited his role to prey on vulnerable girls aged between eight and 18 between 2010 and 2020.

The abuse came to light when one victim, then aged 15, bravely reported him to Greater Manchester Police in October 2020 after years of believing she was to blame.

An investigation by Rochdale’s safeguarding team uncovered four further victims, with the youngest just eight years old when the assaults began.

Convictions and Sentencing

After a four-week trial in July, Iqbal was convicted of 29 out of 30 counts of sexual assault against five victims.

At Manchester Crown Court, he was sentenced to 14 years in prison — 11 to be served in custody and a further three years on extended licence. He was also handed an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order and restraining orders.

“Hid Behind a Good Reputation”

Detective Constable Alex Dodd, who led the case, said:

“All five victims were young Muslim girls from good families who were silenced by fear.
Iqbal befriended their families and used the good reputation of the community to hide his sordid sexual agenda.”

He praised the bravery of survivors and their families, adding their determination had helped secure justice.

Police Appeal for More Victims

Greater Manchester Police have launched Operation Ganister and believe there may be further victims.

Anyone with information is urged to call 101, quoting Operation Ganister.

Wider Questions Raised

The case has reignited debate on how best to protect children from abuse by trusted figures such as tutors, faith leaders, and coaches.

Campaigners are now calling for stricter safeguarding checks for private tutors and improved community reporting channels to ensure victims feel safe coming forward.