A government minister announced on Wednesday that officials are "looking at every route" to deport Shabir Ahmed, the leader of a notorious grooming gang in Rochdale. Ahmed, who was sentenced to 22 years in prison in August 2012, is set to be released today, raising concerns among his victims.
Legal Barriers to Ahmed's Deportation
Despite earlier expectations that Ahmed would be deported to Pakistan after serving his sentence, victims have been informed that a 55-year-old law prevents this action. The Immigration Act 1971 stipulates that any Commonwealth citizen who arrived in the UK before 1973 and has been in the country for at least five years cannot be deported.
Labour Minister for Skills, Baroness Jacqui Smith, stated, "We are doing everything we can to get this guy out of the country." This statement reflects the government's frustration with the legal limitations imposed by the act.
Calls for Legislative Change
Jim McMahon, Labour MP for Oldham, emphasized the need to amend the 1971 Act. He argued that the legislation was intended to protect Commonwealth citizens seeking a better life, not to provide immunity for criminals. McMahon stated, "It was not designed to give a free pass to a child rapist."
He further mentioned the importance of closing the loophole that allows Ahmed to remain in the UK, but cautioned that legal advice is needed to determine if changes could apply retrospectively.
Victims Express Fear and Concerns
Andy Burnham, expected to become the next Labour leader, voiced his support for Ahmed's deportation, stating, "Like everyone, I want this vile criminal out of the country. Victims must come first." He urged the home and foreign secretaries to explore all possible options for deportation.
One survivor, identified as Ruby, expressed her fears about Ahmed's release, saying, "I am scared for my safety and my kids' safety." She highlighted the potential risks posed by Ahmed's familiarity with the local area.
In light of these concerns, the Home Office confirmed that Ahmed will be subject to strict licence conditions upon his release, including an electronic tag and an exclusion zone around Rochdale and Oldham. Breaching these conditions could result in his return to prison.
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