MOHAMMED DAMANIYA BANNED FROM KIRKLEES MARKETS AFTER DEWSBURY PAEDOPHILE SCANDAL

In June 2019, a significant case of criminal misconduct unfolded involving Mohammed Damaniya, a market trader operating within the Kirklees area, specifically in Dewsbury. Damaniya, aged 53, was publicly exposed last year by an online paedophile hunting group, which brought to light his inappropriate and illegal communications with a minor. Following his conviction, authorities took decisive action to prevent him from continuing his activities in the local markets of Kirklees.

Residents of Dewsbury expressed their deep concern over Damaniya's ongoing presence at the town’s market stalls, despite the serious allegations and his subsequent conviction. In response, council officials, prompted by these community worries and reports, moved swiftly to impose a ban on Damaniya, prohibiting him from trading at any markets within the borough of Kirklees. This measure was supported by Clr Aleks Lukic, representing Dewsbury Borough Ind, Dewsbury East, who played a key role in raising awareness and advocating for community safety.

Damaniya’s legal troubles culminated at Leeds Crown Court on June 5, where he was sentenced to 24 months in prison, though this sentence was suspended for two years. Additionally, he was subjected to a seven-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which explicitly forbids him from deleting his internet browsing history, a measure designed to prevent further concealment of his online activities. He is also required to register as a sex offender for a period of seven years.

The charges against Damaniya stemmed from disturbing online communications with a decoy posing as a 14-year-old girl. Court documents revealed that he had sent explicit images, including a photograph of a penis, and shared links to pornographic videos. He also discussed plans to “take her virginity” once she reached the age of 18, indicating premeditated intent and a disturbing level of predatory behavior. His address was listed as Olympia Gardens, Thornhill Lees, at the time of his arrest.

Damaniya’s arrest last year was facilitated by the online paedophile hunting group Parents Aligned, which recorded a confrontation at Dewsbury Market. During this encounter, Damaniya was caught on camera exchanging explicit messages with a decoy, further confirming his inappropriate conduct. The group detailed that Damaniya had sent videos demonstrating various sexual acts and had asked the decoy to send photographs of her breasts. He also discussed booking a hotel room with the intent to engage in sexual activity, citing her “purity” and “untouched” status as reasons for his interest.

Following the legal proceedings and community concerns, Clr Lukic emphasized the importance of maintaining a safe environment in Dewsbury’s markets. He stated, “Residents were rightly concerned that our markets should be a safe environment for teenage children to shop and socialise,” underscoring the community’s demand for protective measures against individuals like Damaniya. The council’s actions reflect a firm stance on safeguarding young people and ensuring that public spaces remain secure from predatory behavior.