An Afghan asylum seeker has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the abduction and rape of a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, in a case that ignited widespread anti-asylum protests across the town last summer. Ahmad Mulakhil, aged 23, was found guilty of multiple serious offences, including rape, child abduction, and sexual assault, following a trial at Warwick Crown Court.
Details of the Attack and Conviction
Ahmad Mulakhil was convicted last month on charges of rape, child abduction, taking an indecent video, and two counts of sexual assault. He had previously admitted to a second count of rape before the trial commenced. The court heard that Mulakhil filmed himself during the assault, which occurred in July, adding a disturbing layer to the crimes.
Judge's Sentencing Remarks
Passing sentence on Friday, Judge Kristina Montgomery KC highlighted the severe and ongoing trauma suffered by the victim. She stated that the girl, who was particularly vulnerable due to her personal circumstances, has experienced significant psychological harm since the attack. The judge noted that Mulakhil targeted the victim after meeting her earlier in the evening, and despite the victim falsely claiming to be 19 years old, the jury concluded he knew she was under 16.
Judge Montgomery described the aftermath of the assault, saying, "After the attack, you left the area together but when you parted company, she was left alone in a park in the darkness. She was distressed, hypervigilant, and looking over her shoulder to see if you were still nearby." The victim immediately reported the sexual assault, undergoing medical examinations and police questioning, and later faced cross-examination in court as Mulakhil contested her allegations.
Background of the Defendant
Defence barrister Marcus Harry provided context during the sentencing hearing, explaining that Mulakhil arrived in the UK on a small boat four months before the offences. He fled Afghanistan at age 22 after his family came under Taliban scrutiny, having completed 12 years of schooling and planned to study economics at university. Mulakhil claimed political asylum upon arrival, with his application pending at the time of the crimes.
Mulakhil told police he believed the girl was 19 and that she initiated what he described as his first sexual encounter. However, the court rejected this defence, with Judge Montgomery asserting that his culpability was at the highest level.
Impact on the Community
The attacks in July triggered large-scale anti-asylum protests in Nuneaton, Warwickshire, last summer. Protesters marched along the town's high street, holding St George's cross and union flags while chanting slogans urging far-right unity. A small number of participants were seen wearing clothing bearing Nazi imagery, reflecting the heightened tensions in the community.
Co-Defendant and Legal Proceedings
Mulakhil faced trial alongside Mohammad Kabir, another Afghan asylum seeker, who was acquitted of charges including intentional strangulation, attempted child abduction, and committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence. The victim, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, testified that she was approached by both defendants in a park after playing on swings, with Mulakhil laughing during the assault.
In addition to the 15-year prison term, Mulakhil will serve an extra 12 months on licence upon release. This case underscores broader issues surrounding asylum seekers and community relations, as well as the severe consequences of violent crimes against children.
