AJAD MIAH FROM BURNLEY JAILED FOR SEXUAL OFFENSES INVOLVING 14-YEAR-OLD IN BURNLEY AND DUNNOCKSHAW

In a significant case highlighting the ongoing efforts to combat sexual exploitation in the Lancashire region, Ajad Miah, a 26-year-old man from Burnley, has been sentenced to prison for his involvement in abusing a young girl. The disturbing incident took place in September of the previous year, when Miah picked up a 14-year-old girl while she was walking along a street in Burnley. Using his Vauxhall Vectra, he approached her and offered her cans of lager and cannabis, substances he used to manipulate and lure her into a vulnerable state.

Following this, Miah engaged in sexual activity with the girl on two separate occasions in the area of Dunnockshaw, which is part of Burnley. The case was brought to light after a thorough investigation by officers from Operation Freedom, a specialized team established to address and combat sexual exploitation and abuse within Burnley, Pendle, and Rossendale. The police's diligent work culminated in Miah's arrest and subsequent trial.

On the third day of proceedings at Burnley Crown Court, the jury found Miah guilty of two counts of sexual activity with a child. The court sentenced him to four years in prison, emphasizing the severity of his actions. Additionally, Miah was subjected to a ten-year Sexual Offences Prevention Order, a legal measure designed to restrict his future conduct and prevent further offenses. He was also permanently banned from working with children, a restriction that will remain in effect for the rest of his life.

Det Con Nikki Corbett, a representative of Operation Freedom, expressed her firm stance on such crimes, stating, “Miah deliberately targeted and preyed on a vulnerable young girl. We have worked with the victim and made sure she has been supported throughout what has been a difficult time. She has shown a great deal of bravery and courage throughout the case.”

She further emphasized the police’s commitment to eradicating such predatory behavior, saying, “This type of predatory crime will not be tolerated, and through the work of Operation Freedom, we will continue to target, warn, and prosecute those responsible. This behavior is not just unacceptable; it is criminal, and we will pursue those involved and bring them to justice.”