Shabana Mahmood is exploring various avenues to expel a notorious leader of a grooming gang following his release from prison. Shabir Ahmed, aged 73, served a 14-year sentence but cannot be deported to Pakistan due to the revocation of his British citizenship. Keir Starmer has urged the Home Secretary to reassess the case, advocating for potential legislative changes.
Andy Burnham, poised to become the next Prime Minister, emphasized the necessity of taking any necessary steps to remove Ahmed from the UK. Government officials reiterated their commitment to deporting foreign national offenders, acknowledging the challenges of securing agreements with receiving countries. Efforts are underway to exhaust all options for deporting the criminal.
Ahmed, now on license, is required to reside in a supervised bail hostel and wear an electronic GPS tag. Restrictions prevent him from entering specific areas in Rochdale and Oldham. Legal obstacles stemming from a 1971 law hinder his deportation, but the government remains resolute in removing foreign offenders from the country.
During parliamentary discussions, Labour MP Paul Waugh called for Ahmed’s deportation, urging the Foreign Office to exert all possible influence to ensure his expulsion. Burnham echoed these sentiments, prioritizing the safety of victims and pledging a comprehensive review of potential solutions.
Victims have expressed distress over Ahmed’s release, with one individual, identified as Amber, voicing anger over the lack of notification and concerns for her family’s safety. Another victim, known as Ruby, supported by The Maggie Oliver Foundation, emphasized feeling unsafe due to Ahmed’s connections and advocated for stronger laws against grooming gang members.
Ahmed was part of a group convicted of offenses against five girls in 2012, receiving a 19-year sentence at Liverpool Crown Court. Efforts to address the challenges posed by his release continue to garner attention and calls for legislative reform.