FOZLU RAMAN'S SHOCKING CRIME IN GLOUCESTER: SHOPKEEPER GROOMS YOUNG GIRLS FOR CIGARETTES AND KISSES
In August 2021, a disturbing case unfolded in Gloucester involving a local shopkeeper, Fozlu Raman, who exploited his position at his convenience store located on Falkner Street to prey on two young girls.The incident has shocked the community and brought to light serious allegations of grooming and sexual misconduct involving minors.
According to court proceedings, Raman, aged 54 and residing on Barton Street in Gloucester, was accused of engaging in inappropriate sexual activities with two girls aged 13 and 14.
Initially denying the charges of sexual activity with children, Raman eventually changed his plea to guilty as the trial was about to commence.
The court heard that his misconduct took place over a period from November 1 to November 20, 2019, within the confines of his shop, which was identified as 'Fish Bazaar' located in the garage area of his store.
The prosecution, led by Christopher Smyth, detailed how the young girls, who frequently visited Raman's shop to purchase cigarettes—despite their age making such purchases illegal—were targeted by the shopkeeper.
The girls, who lied about their true ages but admitted to being under 16, would visit the store independently.
Raman, it was revealed, engaged them in conversations about their lives and sold them counterfeit cigarettes.
As their interactions continued, the nature of Raman's conduct escalated from simple transactions to more sinister acts, including him kissing the girls in a sexual manner.
These kisses were often accompanied by the offer of a free cigarette, further entangling the young victims in his manipulative behavior.
One of the girls' mothers overheard a conversation that raised suspicions, leading her to report Raman to the police.
The court also noted that Raman had a prior conviction related to the sale of counterfeit cigarettes, indicating a pattern of illegal activity.
Judge Ian Lawrie QC addressed Raman directly, condemning his actions as calculated and predatory.
He stated, “You chose in a calculated way to groom two very young girls with intimate sexual conduct.
You realised they were young and you targeted them so that you could have sexual intimacy with them.” As a result of his actions, Raman was sentenced to 15 months in prison, but the sentence was suspended for two years.
Additionally, he was ordered to complete 150 hours of unpaid community work, pay costs amounting to £1,800, and a victim surcharge of £149.
The court also imposed a 10-year sexual harm prevention order, requiring him to stay away from similar activities, and mandated that he sign the Sex Offenders’ Register for the same period.
This case highlights the ongoing issues of grooming and exploitation within local communities and underscores the importance of vigilance and reporting in protecting vulnerable minors.
