Qari Abdul Rauf

Qari Abdul Rauf served as the ringleader of the infamous Rochdale grooming gang, a group of nine men primarily of Pakistani origin who systematically exploited vulnerable young girls in Greater Manchester between 2008 and 2010. The gang preyed on children as young as 13, luring them with gifts, alcohol, and drugs before subjecting them to repeated sexual abuse, rape, and trafficking. Rauf, a former taxi driver, was central to the operation, using his position to transport victims and facilitate the abuse at various locations including takeaways and private flats.

The case came to light following investigations by Greater Manchester Police, revealing how the gang had groomed and abused dozens of girls, with victims often from troubled backgrounds. In May 2012, at Liverpool Crown Court, Rauf was convicted of conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with children under 16, trafficking for sexual exploitation, and other serious offences. He was sentenced to six years in prison. The judge highlighted the 'sickening' nature of the crimes, noting the profound impact on victims who were treated as 'commodities'.

• One victim described being 'passed around like a Chinese takeaway', plied with drugs to ensure compliance.
• The inquiry by the Home Affairs Select Committee later criticised authorities for failing to act earlier due to fears of being labelled racist.

Released after serving his sentence, Rauf was recommended for deportation to Pakistan but remains in the UK, recently spotted walking freely in Rochdale, causing outrage among victims and the public. A MailOnline investigation in January 2025 revealed he is among 155 convicted groomers back on the streets, many without restrictions preventing return to crime scenes. Greater Manchester Police confirmed no active measures against him post-release, exacerbating community trauma.

Source: Daily Mail investigation, 'Britain's Asian grooming gangs scandal laid bare', published 11 January 2025.