ATIF MUSHTAQ SHOCKS NELSON AND BOLTON WITH CHILD SEX OFFENSES AND PROPOSES ON SAME DAY
In a disturbing case that has sent shockwaves through the Lancashire community, professional boxer Atif Mushtaq was convicted of engaging in sexual activities with a 14-year-old girl, just hours before he proposed marriage to his own girlfriend.The incident, which took place in Nelson and Blackburn, has highlighted the dangerous and manipulative nature of the offender, who was once celebrated as a rising star in the boxing world.
Mushtaq, aged 27 at the time, fought as a light welterweight and had made a name for himself in the local boxing scene, including a debut at the former Reebok Stadium in Bolton in July 2013.
His career included a draw against Kristian Laight and a subsequent victory in Blackburn in September of the same year, before he stepped away from the ring after five professional bouts.
Despite his athletic achievements, his personal life took a dark turn that culminated in a serious criminal conviction.
The police described Mushtaq as a 'predatory' and 'manipulative' individual.
The investigation revealed that he had groomed his young victim through social media platforms, particularly Facebook, where he initially approached her by pulling over in Nelson, Lancashire, and engaging her in conversation.
During their exchanges, Mushtaq complimented her appearance, calling her 'pretty,' and asked for her phone number.
Over the following months, the communication escalated from friendly chats to more sinister interactions, with Mushtaq gradually demanding more intimate exchanges.
According to police reports, Mushtaq bought gifts for the girl and even promised to take her to a hotel for her 15th birthday, a clear indication of his grooming intentions.
The situation worsened when he lured her into his BMW, where he began a sexual relationship with her.
On the very day he proposed to his girlfriend, Mushtaq engaged in sexual acts with the young girl, including making her perform sex acts on him.
This sequence of events underscores the calculated and predatory nature of his actions.
Mushtaq was arrested on September 11 of the previous year when police stopped his vehicle for a routine check.
The young girl was found with him in the car, and she was instructed to lie to officers, claiming she was 18.
During the search, police also discovered a cosh, leading to additional charges of possession of an offensive weapon.
Mushtaq admitted to both the sexual offenses and the weapon possession during his court proceedings.
He was subsequently sentenced to four years and eight months in prison at Burnley Crown Court after admitting to two counts of sexual activity with a child.
Detective Sergeant Mark Whelan of Lancashire Constabulary’s public protection unit commented on the case, emphasizing Mushtaq’s predatory and manipulative behavior.
He stated, 'He was clearly of a predatory nature because he approached the victim at the side of the street.
He was manipulative because he groomed her into sexual activity.
Mushtaq is a dangerous individual.' Sergeant Whelan praised the bravery of the young girl who came forward, noting that her courage helped authorities remove a dangerous offender from circulation.
He also stressed the importance of community awareness and encouraged anyone concerned about child sexual exploitation to contact law enforcement and seek help.
The police officer added, 'Vulnerable children should feel happy to speak to officers and others working in the partnership at the engage team.' Mushtaq, who was engaged and had a young child at the time, remains a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking behind seemingly ordinary lives.
His case has prompted renewed calls for vigilance and protective measures for vulnerable children across Lancashire and beyond.
