Liban Abdi

Liban Abdi, aged 21 and known by the alias 'Left Back', was a key member of a 13-strong Somali gang convicted of running a prostitution ring that targeted vulnerable British teenagers in Bristol. The gang preyed on girls aged between 13 and 17, many in local authority care, grooming them with drugs, alcohol, and false promises of relationships before subjecting them to rape, sexual abuse, and exploitation for prostitution.

Abdi was convicted in the first trial at Bristol Crown Court of paying for the sexual services of a child, specifically Girl A, a 16-year-old who had been placed in a city centre flat with minimal supervision. The flat became a base for the gang's drug dealing and sexual exploitation activities. Abdi also admitted to supplying cocaine and heroin, and a separate charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm to a prison officer. The offences occurred over a two-year period starting in 2011, uncovered during Operation Brooke by Avon and Somerset Police.

• Abdi's involvement included exploiting the vulnerability of the girls, using the fear of rape to control them, and facilitating their 'passing around' among gang members for sex, often for as little as £30 or in exchange for drugs.
• Prosecutor Anna Vigars described how the girls were convinced that the abuse was 'normal' and part of Somali 'culture and tradition', with men having sex with each other's girlfriends.

The investigation revealed a catalogue of abuse against 10 girls, with evidence including CCTV footage, phone records, and victim testimonies. Abdi was sentenced on 27 November 2014 to a total of 13 years and 8 months in prison. Detective Inspector Gary Stephens noted the victims' remarkable courage in coming forward, highlighting the gang's systematic abuse and control.

This case, similar to those in Rotherham and Rochdale, prompted serious case reviews into how the girls became victims. The Bristol Somali Forum condemned the 'unforgivable acts of cruelty', emphasising community shock and support for the victims' recovery.