Key facts
- Shabir Ahmed is the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang.
- Ahmed is set for release from prison this week.
- Ahmed cannot be deported to Pakistan due to the Immigration Act 1971.
- Ahmed arrived in the UK before 1973.
- Ahmed has lived in the UK for over five years.
- Ahmed's British citizenship has been revoked.
- A whistleblower has expressed fear over Ahmed's release.
- Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is urging for Ahmed's deportation.
- Ahmed has been convicted of child rape.
- Concerns have been raised about probation service failings.
Shabir Ahmed, identified as the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang, is scheduled for release from prison this week. However, his deportation from the UK to Pakistan is currently barred by provisions within the Immigration Act 1971. This legislation prevents the removal of individuals who arrived in the UK before 1973 and have lived in the country for over five years. Ahmed's British citizenship has been revoked, yet this action does not facilitate his deportation due to the aforementioned legal loophole.
Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is actively seeking to deport Ahmed, urging both the Home Secretary and the Foreign Secretary to investigate all available avenues for his removal. Concurrently, a whistleblower who originally exposed the grooming gang has voiced concerns regarding Ahmed's impending release. The whistleblower cites perceived weaknesses in probation services and Ahmed's alleged lack of remorse as reasons for apprehension. Ahmed has been convicted of child rape.