British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is facing criticism from sections of the British Pakistani community after supporting the deportation of Shabir Ahmed, the convicted ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang. The issue has sparked debate over legal responsibility, citizenship, and the possible impact on UK Pakistan relations.
The UK government is seeking to deport Ahmed after his release from prison, where he served 14 years of a 22 year sentence for multiple child rape offences. The government also plans to amend the Immigration Act 1971 to close a legal loophole that currently prevents his deportation. However, Pakistan has refused to accept Ahmed, arguing that he gave up his Pakistani citizenship and has lived in the United Kingdom for nearly six decades.
The controversy has divided members of the British Pakistani community. Some believe Pakistan should accept Ahmed to prevent diplomatic tensions, while others argue that Britain should take full responsibility for someone who spent most of his life in the country and held British citizenship for many years.
Birmingham lawyer Akhmed Yakoob, who previously contested against Mahmood in the general election, strongly criticized the government’s position. He claimed Britain should not transfer responsibility for serious criminals to another country and accused the Home Secretary of using the issue for political gain. He also indicated that the matter could become an important topic during future election campaigns.
On the other hand, Lord Shaffaq Mohammed warned that continued disagreement between both countries could place pressure on long standing diplomatic and economic relations. He urged both governments to find a practical and cooperative solution that protects bilateral ties while ensuring justice is served.
Legal expert Ayesha Ijaz Khan argued that Pakistan has the legal right to reject the deportation request because Ahmed renounced his Pakistani citizenship decades ago. She also criticized suggestions of visa restrictions or financial penalties against Pakistan, saying such measures would be unfair and harmful to relations between the two countries.
Political analyst Taimoor Iqbal also expressed concern that expanding deportation powers could create a legal precedent that may affect minority communities in the future. The debate continues as both governments consider the legal and diplomatic implications of the case.
