British officials say they are taking steps to allow the deportation to Pakistan of Shabir Ahmed, described by multiple outlets as the leader of the Rochdale grooming gang. Reporting indicates that the UK government, led by Home Secretary Yvette Mahmood in some accounts, is preparing a change to immigration legislation to close a legal barrier that has prevented deportation. Coverage also says the government is exploring “every route” to remove him and is in talks with Pakistan about whether he can be taken back.
Several outlets report that Pakistan has set out conditions for accepting Ahmed, while at least one outlet says Pakistan has refused to take him back under current circumstances. One outlet also reports a dispute over Ahmed’s Pakistan passport, claiming he tore it up, which is presented as part of the obstacle to deportation.
Other coverage notes that after Ahmed’s release from prison, police protection has been provided to one or more victims. Multiple outlets also describe Ahmed as having been assessed previously as a high risk to children. The reports present the issue as ongoing, with legal changes and diplomatic steps still under consideration.
