WIREDGOV

Five men have been sentenced to a total of 63 years after being convicted of a number of child sexual abuse offences, including rape and sexual assault, as part of the National Crime Agency's investigation into allegations of abuse and exploitation in Rotherham.

Aftab Hussain (40) was sentenced to 24 years in prison, while Abid Saddiq (38), received 20 years.

Masaued Malik (35), Sharaz Hussain (35) and a man who can't be named for legal reasons, were jailed for 5, 4 and 10 years respectively.

The five were found guilty on Wednesday 28 August, along with Mohammed Ashan (35) and another man who also cannot be named for legal reasons, following an eight week trial at Sheffield Crown Court. 

Ashan and the seventh defendent will be sentenced at a later date.

Read the full story here: www.nationalcrimeagency.gov.uk/news/op-stovewood-victims-get-justice-after-another-six-men-guilty-of-sexually-abusing-young-girls-in-rotherham  

Commenting on the sentencing, Op Stovewood Senior Investigating Officer, Philip Marshall, said:

“We welcome the sentences that have been imposed on these five men. They reflect the serious nature of their criminal activity which has marred the childhood and adult life of a number of victims.
 
“These men acted in the most callous way. They targeted young vulnerable children and used drugs, alcohol and the offer of apparent friendships or relationships to gain their trust and abuse them.
 
“These sentences are testimony to the individual victims in this case. They have been incredibly brave when recounting these offences which happened a number of years ago. In doing so, they have been taken seriously and as credible witnesses by the courts and ultimately assisted in the conviction of their abusers.
 
“I hope this demonstrates that victims of sexual abuse within Rotherham can have confidence in the NCA: that we work in partnership with a number of key local agencies and together do our utmost to support them as they deal with the trauma they have experienced. I would urge anyone who has been a victim of similar abuse in Rotherham to come forward.
 
“Whilst my aim as a law enforcement officer is to secure criminal convictions, my wider focus will always be on the wellbeing of the victims and we will continue to work together to ensure that the individual needs of them, and their families are at the forefront of all we do.”