Shabir Ahmed, the 73-year-old ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang, has been released from prison to Highfield House, an approved premises in Accrington, Lancashire—just 15 miles from his former stomping ground.
The convicted paedophile, jailed in 2012 for dozens of rape and child-sex offences, was freed on July 2 under UK sentencing laws, despite serving only half of his 19-year sentence. His release has sparked a diplomatic row with Pakistan, which refuses to accept his deportation, citing his renounced citizenship.
Controversial placement at Highfield House
Highfield House, a former Victorian mansion repurposed as a high-risk offender facility, now hosts Ahmed alongside other notorious criminals. The site, surrounded by schools and playgrounds, has drawn outrage from local leaders and victims’ advocates, including former police officer Maggie Oliver, who called the decision "the lunatics running the asylum."
Locals reported heightened security at the premises, including closed gates and round-the-clock guards, after Ahmed’s arrival. A fellow resident described him as reclusive, leaving his room only for meals and brief garden walks, always dressed in sportswear and a prayer hat.
Public and political backlash
Accrington MP Sarah Smith condemned the placement, demanding a wider exclusion zone to keep Ahmed away from Lancashire. Muslim community leaders also expressed distress, warning of rising tensions. Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester’s mayor, demanded Ahmed’s deportation, declaring, "I want this vile criminal out of the country."
Pakistan’s foreign minister argued Ahmed was "spoiled" in the UK, while the British government faces criticism for approving a £153 million aid package to Pakistan despite its refusal to repatriate him. A loophole in the 1971 Immigration Act prevents his removal, as he arrived in the UK before 1973.
Ahmed’s history of defiance
During his trials, Ahmed showed no remorse, smearing victims and accusing authorities of racism. He claimed his teenage victims were "clever girls" who "knew what they were doing," and later appealed his convictions, alleging an anti-Muslim conspiracy. Even in prison, he assaulted a fellow inmate for criticising Islam and was later appointed an "equalities representative" at HMP Wakefield.
His current whereabouts remain undisclosed after protesters gathered outside Highfield House, prompting his reported removal by police. With Pakistan refusing to accept him, Ahmed’s future—and the public’s safety—remains uncertain.
