Shahzad Nowaz

Shahzad Nowaz, aged 45, was one of twenty men convicted and jailed for their roles in the systematic rape and sexual abuse of four girls in Calderdale, West Yorkshire. The offences occurred between 2001 and 2010, targeting vulnerable girls aged between 12 and 16. Nowaz was part of the first investigation launched in 2016, focusing on the sexual abuse and exploitation of two girls aged 13 to 16 between 2006 and 2009.

The case came to light following allegations reported in 2016, leading to extensive police investigations by West Yorkshire Police. Nowaz was tried at Bradford Crown Court in the first trial, which commenced in October 2021. He was found guilty of rape and making threats to kill. Alongside Nadeem Nassir, who faced similar charges, Nowaz was sentenced to 11 years in prison. The combined sentences for all twenty men totalled 219 years, reflecting the severity and duration of the abuse.

Detective Chief Inspector Claire Smith of West Yorkshire Police highlighted the courage of the victims, stating: “Firstly, I want to acknowledge the sheer courage of the victims and survivors in each of these investigations – not only for having the bravery to come forward initially but also for enduring the criminal justice system and the weight of criminal trials and reporting restrictions in place.” The convictions were only publicised after court restrictions were lifted on Wednesday, allowing details of the three concluded investigations to be shared.

This case underscores West Yorkshire Police's commitment to tackling child sexual exploitation, with DCI Smith adding: “Tackling child sexual exploitation and abuse is a top priority for West Yorkshire Police and our partners. This is an abhorrent crime which has a lifelong impact on victims and survivors.” The abuse involved grooming and repeated assaults, part of a broader pattern exposed in Calderdale similar to other UK grooming gang cases.