Bassam Karrar

Bassam Karrar was convicted for his role in the Oxford paedophile ring that abused and exploited young girls between 2004 and 2012. The offences encompassed grooming vulnerable children in care, repeated rapes, torture, and trafficking, with victims plied with drugs to facilitate the depravity.

Karrar, 33, from Oxford, and brother to Mohammed Karrar, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 15 years. The judge noted his brutal rape and attack on a 14-year-old girl while high on cocaine, part of 43 charges against the group. Peter Rook described the crimes as targeting 'vulnerable, underage' girls, causing lasting trauma.

Thames Valley Police's delayed response, despite alerts from 2006, was scrutinised in the 18-week trial, which excused jurors from future service due to its disturbing nature. Simon Morton led the breakthrough in 2010, warning, 'Look over your shoulder and keep looking over your shoulder. We are coming for you.' The probe continues with over 50 suspects.

Baljit Ubhey from the CPS highlighted non-consent in exploitative scenarios and new witness guidelines. Oxfordshire County Council expressed regret, launching a review, while the judge hoped the victims' courage would inspire better protection and deter abusers, echoing patterns in other UK grooming cases.