ABID SADDIQUE AND MOHAMMED LIAQAT SENTENCED FOR GROOMING GIRLS IN DERBY AND NORMANTON

In a significant crackdown on child exploitation, two men responsible for a disturbing campaign of grooming, assault, and rape targeting vulnerable young girls in Derby and Normanton have been sentenced to indeterminate prison terms. The offenders, Abid Saddique and Mohammed Liaqat, used manipulative tactics involving drugs and alcohol to lure girls as young as 12 years old, with their criminal activities spanning over a period of two years.

Authorities uncovered the extent of their depravity through an undercover police operation known as Operation Retriever. This investigation revealed that the gang targeted girls outside school gates and in the streets of Derby city centre, preying on those who were most vulnerable and easily manipulated. The victims included at least 27 girls, some of whom were under the care of foster families in Derby, while others resided in children’s homes managed by Derby City Council or Leicestershire County Council.

Following a series of secret court trials that lasted ten months, both offenders were convicted on multiple serious charges. Abid Mohammed Saddique, aged 27 and residing on Northumberland Street in Normanton, was found guilty of four counts of rape, two counts of false imprisonment, two counts of sexual assault, two charges of sexual activity with a child, and additional charges including causing a child under 13 to engage in sexual activity, perverting the course of justice, and aiding and abetting rape. His crimes were committed during the two-year period in which he targeted young girls, exploiting their vulnerability for his own gratification.

Mohammed Liaqat was convicted of one count of rape, two counts of sexual assault, aiding and abetting rape, as well as charges of affray and four counts of sexual activity with a child. Both men also admitted to causing individuals under 18 to participate in pornography, further highlighting the severity of their offenses.

Today, the court handed down indeterminate sentences to both men, reflecting the gravity of their crimes. Saddique, who has already served 617 days on remand, will not be eligible for parole for at least 11 years. Similarly, Liaqat, also having served 617 days, will be required to serve a minimum of eight years before being considered for release. The sentences underscore the authorities’ commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that those responsible for such heinous acts are held accountable for their actions.