An Afghan asylum seeker has been found guilty of abducting and raping a 12-year-ancient girl in Warwickshire.
Details of the Case
Ahmad Mulakhil, 23, “targeted” the child after spotting her in a park in Nuneaton last July, according to prosecutors. He was unanimously convicted at Warwick Crown Court of rape and two counts of sexual assault, and had previously admitted to a further rape charge. Jurors also found him guilty of child abduction and taking an indecent video of the girl during the ordeal.
Mulakhil told the court he did not force the girl to do anything or threaten her family, claiming she had requested he film her during a brief period of sexual activity. He also stated he believed the girl was 19 years old and that she initiated their sexual encounter.
Co-defendant Mohammad Kabir, also an Afghan national, was acquitted of intentional strangulation, attempted child abduction, and committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence. Kabir, 24 according to court documents but claiming to be 22 years old, maintained he never touched the victim and had no sexual intentions towards her.
The attack sparked protests in Nuneaton, with demonstrators carrying St George’s Cross and Union flags and chanting “stop the boats” and “we want our country back.” The arrests and charges prompted claims of a “cover-up” from Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Warwickshire County Council leader George Finch.
Following the incident, police guidance was changed to allow forces to release nationality and ethnicity details when there is a legitimate policing purpose, though forces still do not confirm the immigration status of crime suspects.
Mulakhil was remanded in custody and will be sentenced on a date to be fixed. Judge Kristina Montgomery KC thanked the jurors for their service, acknowledging the “noise” surrounding the proceedings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What charges was Ahmad Mulakhil convicted of?
Ahmad Mulakhil was unanimously convicted of rape and two counts of sexual assault. He had previously admitted to a further rape charge. He was also convicted of child abduction and taking an indecent video of the girl.
What was the outcome for Mohammad Kabir?
Mohammad Kabir was acquitted of intentional strangulation, attempted child abduction, and committing an offence with intent to commit a sexual offence.
What did the judge say about Mulakhil’s sentencing?
Judge Kristina Montgomery KC said Mulakhil would receive a “substantial custodial sentence” and would be liable for deportation upon its conclusion.
As this case moves forward, what role will public discourse play in shaping immigration policy and judicial proceedings?
