Key facts
- Shabir Ahmed, the leader of the Rochdale grooming gang, is due for release this week.
- A whistleblower fears Ahmed's release due to probation failings and his lack of remorse.
- Ahmed was convicted of child rape.
- Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is seeking options for Ahmed's deportation.
- Burnham has contacted the Home and Foreign Secretaries.
- Ahmed's British citizenship has been revoked.
- Legal barriers prevent Ahmed's deportation to Pakistan.
- A legal loophole is cited as a reason for the deportation difficulties.
Shabir Ahmed, identified as the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang, is scheduled for release this week, raising significant concerns. A whistleblower who exposed the gang's activities fears Ahmed's impending release, citing "weak" probation services and a notable lack of remorse from Ahmed, who was convicted of child rape. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is also taking action, urging the Home and Foreign Secretaries to explore every possible avenue for deporting Ahmed. Despite having his British citizenship revoked, Ahmed faces legal obstacles that currently prevent his deportation to Pakistan. These barriers are attributed to a specific legal loophole. The situation highlights ongoing challenges in managing the release and potential deportation of individuals convicted of serious offenses, particularly when they possess dual nationality or have legal protections that complicate removal.