Reform UK is pressing for an independent inquiry into grooming gang crimes in Wales, following the conviction of three men for rape in Caernarfon. The party, now the second largest in the Senedd, has written to First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth urging action.
Convictions prompt calls for action
On Monday, Mustafa Iqbal, Mohamed Arshad, and Ziaullah Badshah were found guilty of rape at Caernarfon Crown Court, accused of treating girls aged 14, 15, and 16 as "sexual commodities." Welsh Reform leader Dan Thomas highlighted the victims' courage and the need for systemic change.
In his letter, Thomas stated: "Children who have been sexually abused and exploited deserve nothing less than the Welsh Government using every lever at its disposal to tackle grooming gangs in Wales." He also expressed concern that none of the initial local investigations by the Statutory Independent Inquiry into Grooming Gang are in Wales, focusing instead on Bradford, Keighley, Oldham, and London.
Demand for Wales-wide investigation
Thomas argued that the lack of attention to Wales is "indefensible" and could harm trust and confidence. He urged the First Minister to bring forward a Wales-wide inquiry, saying: "For the sake of victims and to ensure that we have the best opportunity possible to learn how our organisations can better protect our children, Reform Wales urge you to bring forward an independent Wales-wide inquiry into grooming gangs too."
Thomas has also written to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, asking whether she will "deport any foreign national found guilty of grooming gang activity in Wales."
Government and inquiry responses
A Welsh Government spokesperson said: "We unequivocally condemn the abuse and exploitation of children and young people. Our thoughts are with victims and survivors, and we pay tribute to their courage in coming forward. Victims and survivors deserve honesty, transparency and accountability. The Welsh Government is engaging fully with the UK Independent Inquiry into grooming gangs, working with partners to support its work. We will carefully consider its findings and determine what further action is needed in Wales."
A spokesperson for the UK Government-commissioned inquiry said further "local area investigations" will be announced, adding: "This is a national Inquiry and evidence from across England and Wales will inform its findings and recommendations. Victims and survivors can share their experiences with the inquiry regardless of where they live. Not being in a local area investigation does not make an individual's experience any less important."
