Saman Obaid

At Newcastle Crown Court, Saman Obaid was one of four men convicted in connection with a gang that sexually exploited vulnerable girls aged 13 and older. Northumbria Police's Operation Wren investigated the crimes, which occurred over multiple years from 2006, exposing the defendants' control over the victims.

Saman Obaid, 29, from Newcastle, was found guilty of supplying drugs. He was cleared of having sexual activity with a child, paying for the sexual services of a child, and conspiracy to arrange or facilitate the prostitution of a child. The prosecution portrayed the girls as being under the influence and control of these older defendants. Northumbria Police Detective Superintendent Steve Barron stated: 'We want to ensure there is a repugnant stigma associated with sexual exploitation in all communities and, in particular, against individuals who think this treatment of women and girls is in any way acceptable.'

This verdict comes shortly after the conviction of 17 men and one woman for similar exploitation using alcohol and drugs to coerce girls into sex. Obaid is set to be sentenced in October 2017 with the others.