Twenty men and one woman have been jailed for a combined total of 277 years after a significant police investigation into the sexual abuse of young girls in Kirklees, West Yorkshire. The offences occurred between 1995 and 2003, primarily in Dewsbury and Batley, targeting three victims, including one girl who was only 12 years old when the abuse started.
The trials began in July 2023 at Leeds Crown Court and were divided into six separate hearings. Due to reporting restrictions, details of the cases were not made public until all trials concluded in September 2024, with some sentencing continuing into 2025.
Sajid Majid, 53, from Mirfield, was sentenced to 28 years in prison for multiple rapes and indecent assaults. Aurrangzeb Azam, 56, from Dewsbury, received a 20-year sentence for 10 rapes. Ansar Mahmood Qayum, 49, also from Dewsbury, was sentenced to 10 years, which will be added to an existing 20-year term, resulting in a total of 30 years. Other offenders received sentences ranging from 3 to 25 years for various crimes including rape, indecent assault, and drug supply.
Detective Chief Inspector Rob Stevens described the case as a “major investigation into truly appalling sexual abuse of vulnerable girls.” He commended the victims for their courage in giving evidence throughout the lengthy trials and acknowledged their determination to achieve justice.
DCI Stevens also revealed that some victims were given Class A drugs and subjected to repeated assaults, being treated like commodities by their abusers. The severe sentences reflect the gravity of the crimes and the enduring harm caused to the victims.
The long prison terms highlight the depravity of the offenders and act as a warning to anyone who exploits vulnerable individuals. Kirklees District Police reaffirmed their commitment to protecting victims and pursuing justice in similar cases.
Originally published by UKNIP.
