YASIN HAMID-TAHA'S HORRIFIC CRIMES IN BURNLEY LEAVE VICTIMS SHATTERED

On Monday, March 31, at Burnley Crown Court, a harrowing case involving severe child abuse and conspiracy to commit sexual offenses was brought to a close with the sentencing of three individuals connected to the crimes. Audrey Hamid-Taha, aged 58, and Javed Iqbal, aged 52, appeared before the court to face the consequences of their actions after being found guilty following two separate trials. The court proceedings revealed the extent of the abuse inflicted upon vulnerable victims, with the details leaving a lasting impact on all present.

Audrey Hamid-Taha was convicted of four counts of child cruelty and four counts of conspiracy to commit rape. Her involvement in these heinous acts was confirmed through evidence presented during the trials, which painted a disturbing picture of neglect and abuse. The court sentenced her to a lengthy prison term of 28 years, reflecting the gravity of her crimes and the need for justice for the victims.

Meanwhile, Javed Iqbal and Yasin Hamid-Taha, who was notably absent from the court proceedings as he remains at large, were both sentenced to 21 years in prison each. The court emphasized that all three individuals would be subject to lifelong sex offender notification requirements, ensuring ongoing monitoring and restrictions to protect the community from further harm.

Prosecutor Alaric Bassano described the horrific nature of the offenses, stating, "Two girls were allowed to be raped by strangers. A boy was often slapped and locked away without food and water." These chilling revelations underscored the severity of the abuse and the failure of the perpetrators to protect their victims.

One of the victims, who bravely gave testimony in court, shared her emotional state, saying, "I am picking up the pieces that I never broke. Every day is a challenge to get up and I feel numb and upset." Her words highlighted the lasting trauma inflicted upon those who suffered at the hands of the accused.

Yasin Hamid-Taha remains at large, with his current whereabouts unknown, raising concerns about his potential to pose further risk. The case has garnered significant attention in Burnley and beyond, shining a light on the dark realities of child abuse and the importance of vigilant law enforcement to bring perpetrators to justice.