SOUTH NORWOOD PAEDOPHILE AJAY MITRA SENTENCED FOR ONLINE GROOMING IN REDHILL

In a disturbing case that highlights the ongoing threat of online predators, Ajay Mitra, a resident of Clifford Road in South Norwood, has been sentenced to 30 months in prison after admitting to serious charges related to the grooming of a young girl. The investigation, conducted by Surrey Police, uncovered a troubling pattern of communication between Mitra and a girl under the age of 13, with the intent of arranging a sexual encounter.

Authorities began their inquiry in May when they discovered that Mitra was engaging in messaging exchanges via the internet and text messages, targeting a minor with the aim of sexual activity. The messages indicated a clear attempt to meet a girl under 16, which is a criminal offense involving sexual grooming and exploitation of minors.

Specially trained officers from Surrey Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team meticulously examined the communications, which revealed the predator’s persistent efforts over several weeks to lure the young victim. The investigation culminated in Mitra’s arrest outside a McDonald's restaurant in Redhill on May 15. It was revealed that Mitra had traveled to the area with the explicit purpose of meeting the girl, further underscoring the seriousness of his intentions.

Following his arrest, Mitra was charged with multiple sexual offenses, reflecting the gravity of his actions. The case drew significant attention from law enforcement officials committed to protecting children from online predators. Detective Inspector Paul Gordon of Surrey Police’s Paedophile Online Investigation Team expressed his satisfaction with the custodial sentence, emphasizing the complexity of the investigation and the importance of bringing such offenders to justice.

He stated, “I welcome the custodial sentence for Mitra which represents the culmination of a complex investigation. Mitra’s behaviour in persistently targeting such a young victim over a number of weeks was clearly concerning. Surrey Police takes all online-offences extremely seriously and we will continue to use all available resources to bring those who prey on young and vulnerable people online to justice.”