In brief
The UK government is pushing to deport Shabir Ahmed, who served 22 years for rape and sexual offences against girls. Pakistan’s Foreign Affairs ministry has said the case is solely a British issue, refusing to assist in his removal. The decision hinges on changing the 1971 Immigration Act, which prevented deportation of Commonwealth citizens who arrived before 1973. The Home Office acknowledges Pakistan must accept Ahmed if deportation is to proceed.
Shabir Ahmed was the ringleader of a gang that abused girls as young as 12. He was convicted in 2012 and served 22 years, having dual British‑Pakistani citizenship.
The UK government wants Ahmed to be deported, but Pakistan’s Foreign Affairs ministry says the matter is an internal British issue and that it has no connection to the case.
Calls for the removal have highlighted that legislation from 1971 bars deportation of Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK before 1973. The UK is proposing amendments that would remove this protection for serious offenders.
Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, said the 1971 Act should not be used to shield a “vile criminal” such as Ahmed. The Home Office confirms that any decision depends on Pakistan’s acceptance.
After his release on licence this month, Ahmed is monitored with a GPS tag and remains in a 24‑hour custody facility. Victims have expressed feeling unsafe, and UK political figures, including Andy Burnham, have called for his immediate deportation.
