Pakistan is refusing to accept Shabir Ahmed, the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang, sparking a diplomatic row with Britain. Islamabad is demanding the extradition of two political dissidents from the UK in return for taking Ahmed back.
Ahmed's Release and Citizenship Status
Shabir Ahmed, sentenced to 19 years in prison in 2012 for raping and abusing multiple young girls, was released on July 2 after serving 14 years. Known as 'Daddy' to his victims, Ahmed has been stripped of his British citizenship, leaving him solely as a Pakistani national. However, a 1971 law prevents the deportation of certain Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK more than 50 years ago, complicating his removal.
Government Response and Proposed Legislation
The Home Office is seeking to amend the law to facilitate Ahmed's deportation. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is expected to set out proposals on Monday, potentially closing the loophole in the Immigration Act. A spokesman for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer declined to comment on specific proposals but stated, “We are exploring every available option in this case, and that includes talking to the Pakistani authorities. But as we’ve set out previously, this is a complex case with both domestic and international implications.”
It remains unclear whether Mahmood's changes will come under fast-tracked legislation or as an amendment to the Immigration and Asylum Bill, due for debate in the Commons on Monday. Home Office minister Alex Norris indicated that “all options are on the table,” including emergency legislation, and emphasized the government's commitment to deporting Ahmed due to his “heinous” crimes.
