Warwickshire Police have denied allegations of a cover-up regarding the immigration status of two Afghan men charged in connection with the alleged rape of a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton. Chief Constable Alex Franklin-Smith published a letter to county council leader George Finch of Reform UK, stating the force 'did not and will not cover up such criminality'.
The suspects, Ahmad Mulakhil and Mohammad Kabir, have been charged with offences including rape, kidnap and strangulation. Finch had accused authorities of concealing that the men are Afghan asylum seekers. However, police forces typically do not disclose immigration status to avoid prejudicing trials.
Franklin-Smith confirmed he had asked the Home Office to verify the men's full immigration status after Finch publicly released some details. He emphasised that the force had treated the investigation seriously from the outset, working to arrest and charge those responsible as quickly as possible.
The case has sparked political controversy, with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage amplifying claims of a cover-up. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has called for greater transparency and is working with the College of Policing to clarify guidance on releasing suspect information. Both men remain in custody and are due to appear at Warwick Crown Court on 26 August.
