In a significant development, the Court of Appeal has increased the prison sentences for three men convicted of raping a teenage girl in Keighley, West Yorkshire, during the 1990s. The original sentences were deemed “pathetically short” by local MP Robbie Moore, prompting a review under the Unduly Lenient Sentence (ULS) Scheme. The revised sentences reflect the gravity of the crimes committed and aim to deliver a stronger message against such heinous offenses.GB News+3BBC+3Yorkshire Post+3
Background of the Case
Initial Convictions and Sentences
In January 2025, Ibrar Hussain, 47, and brothers Imtiaz Ahmed, 62, and Fayaz Ahmed, 45, were convicted at Bradford Crown Court for raping a girl aged between 13 and 14 in Keighley during the late 1990s. Hussain received a sentence of six and a half years, Imtiaz Ahmed was sentenced to nine years, and Fayaz Ahmed received seven and a half years. These sentences were part of a broader case involving eight men convicted of sexually abusing two teenage girls.BBC+1Yorkshire Post+1GB News+3BBC+3Sky News+3Yorkshire Post
Details of the Offenses Committed
The court heard that the victims were plied with drugs and alcohol and subjected to repeated sexual abuse by multiple men. One victim described being “used and abused from the age of 13,” leading to long-term psychological trauma. The abuse occurred in various locations, including flats and secluded areas, highlighting the systematic nature of the exploitation.The Standard+1Yorkshire Post+1Sky News
Court of Appeal’s Decision
Reasons for Sentence Review
Following public outcry and a formal request by MP Robbie Moore, the Solicitor General referred the sentences to the Court of Appeal under the ULS Scheme. The review aimed to assess whether the original sentences adequately reflected the severity of the crimes and the lasting impact on the victims.Yorkshire Post+3BBC+3Yorkshire Post+3
New Sentences Imposed
On May 13, 2025, the Court of Appeal announced increased sentences for the three men:
- Ibrar Hussain’s sentence was increased from six and a half years to 10 years.
- Imtiaz Ahmed’s sentence was increased from nine years to 11 years.
- Fayaz Ahmed’s sentence was increased from seven and a half years to 10 years.Yorkshire Post+2GB News+2BBC+2
These adjustments underscore the court’s recognition of the profound harm inflicted upon the victims and the need for sentences that serve as a deterrent to similar offenses.
Political and Public Response
Statements from Local MP Robbie Moore
Robbie Moore, MP for Keighley and Ilkley, welcomed the increased sentences but expressed concerns that they still fell short of delivering full justice. He emphasized the necessity for more stringent sentencing guidelines to ensure that perpetrators of such crimes receive punishments commensurate with their actions.BBC+4GB News+4Yorkshire Post+4
Comments from Solicitor General Lucy Rigby
Solicitor General Lucy Rigby stated, “This case involved the shocking and hideous abuse of a vulnerable teenager by these three sexual predators. I referred these sentences to the Court of Appeal because, in my view, they were unduly lenient.” She attended the court hearing and expressed satisfaction with the court’s decision to impose longer sentences.
Ongoing Efforts and Implications
Search for Absconded Offenders
Notably, Imtiaz and Fayaz Ahmed absconded during their trial and are believed to be abroad. Efforts are ongoing to locate and extradite them to serve their sentences. The case highlights challenges in ensuring that convicted individuals are held accountable, especially when they flee jurisdiction.
Impact on Victims and Community
The increased sentences have been seen as a step toward justice for the victims, who have endured decades of trauma. The case has also prompted discussions on the effectiveness of the criminal justice system in handling cases of historical sexual abuse and the importance of supporting survivors.
