A convicted child sex offender who fled the country during his trial remains a wanted fugitive after being found guilty of four serious sexual offences against a young girl at Manchester Crown Court.
Hassan Mahmood, 23, of Gigg Lane, Bury, was convicted in his absence following a four-day trial after fleeing the UK on the second day of proceedings. Greater Manchester Police have launched an international manhunt for Mahmood, who is believed to have fled to Pakistan via Qatar.
The Bury Complex Safeguarding Team’s extensive investigation resulted in Mahmood being found guilty of engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a girl under 13, causing a child under 13 to watch or look at an image of sexual activity, engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child under 13, and engaging in sexual communication with a child.
Fled During Trial
Manchester Crown Court heard that Mahmood absconded on the second day of his trial, with police investigations revealing he flew from Manchester Airport to Doha, Qatar. The trial continued in his absence, with the jury ultimately finding him guilty on all four counts.
Judge John Potter issued an arrest warrant for Mahmood, noting that “it may well be that there will be other proceedings” against him for making himself absent from court. The judge said there was “no current knowledge” of Mahmood’s exact whereabouts or when he might return, but confirmed the warrant would remain in force indefinitely.
According to search results from similar cases, the court was told that Mahmood had initiated contact with the victim over the internet when she was just 13 years old, whilst he was 20. The prosecution presented evidence that Mahmood was fully aware of the child’s age as she had disclosed this information during their online communications.
Police Appeal for Information
Greater Manchester Police have issued a public appeal for information regarding Mahmood’s whereabouts. A GMP spokesperson stated: “We don’t know where Mahmood is, but we are determined to find him no matter where he thinks he can hide.”
The force has released Mahmood’s photograph as part of their efforts to track him down, urging anyone with information about his location to come forward immediately.
Sentencing in Absence
Whilst specific sentencing details for Mahmood were not immediately available, similar cases at Manchester Crown Court have resulted in substantial prison terms. The court system allows for defendants who flee during proceedings to be sentenced in their absence, with the sentence taking effect upon their arrest and return to the UK.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about defendants absconding during serious criminal trials. Legal experts note that fleeing the jurisdiction typically results in additional charges and can influence sentencing decisions when fugitives are eventually apprehended.
Complex Safeguarding Investigation
The conviction follows what police described as an “extensive investigation” by the Bury Complex Safeguarding Team. Such specialist units work specifically on cases involving the protection of vulnerable children and the prosecution of those who exploit them.
The successful prosecution, despite the defendant’s absence, demonstrates the thoroughness of the evidence gathered during the investigation. Prosecutors were able to present a compelling case that convinced the jury of Mahmood’s guilt on all charges.
International Cooperation
With Mahmood believed to have fled to Pakistan via Qatar, Greater Manchester Police are likely working with international law enforcement agencies to secure his arrest and extradition. The UK has extradition arrangements with many countries, though the process can be complex and lengthy.
Previous cases have shown that fugitives who flee to avoid justice often face additional charges upon their return, compounding their original sentences. The fact that Mahmood fled during his trial, rather than before it began, may be viewed as an aggravating factor in any future proceedings.
Public Warning
Police have emphasised that anyone found to be harbouring or assisting Mahmood could face serious criminal charges themselves. Assisting an offender or perverting the course of justice carry significant penalties under UK law.
Members of the public are urged not to approach Mahmood if they see him but to contact police immediately. Information can be provided directly to Greater Manchester Police or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Child Protection Priority
The case underscores the continued priority given to child protection by Greater Manchester Police and the Crown Prosecution Service. Despite the challenges posed by the defendant’s flight from justice, authorities proceeded with the trial to ensure the victim’s voice was heard and justice was served.
Child protection charities have long advocated for robust prosecution of sexual offences against children, regardless of the challenges posed by defendants who attempt to evade justice. The successful conviction in Mahmood’s absence sends a clear message that fleeing will not prevent prosecution.
As the search for Hassan Mahmood continues, authorities remain committed to bringing him to justice. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is urged to contact Greater Manchester Police immediately or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Follow for more updates on Britannia Daily
