MAN WHO MANIPULATED AND EXPLOITED YOUNG GIRL FOR DRUGS SENTENCED TO NINE YEARS

A manipulative individual named Najib Arab was convicted for his role in exploiting a vulnerable young girl for criminal gain. He engaged her in drug dealing, using her to package and deliver cannabis, and also involved her in sexual activities. Arab initially met the girl on Snapchat, where he presented himself as a teenage Afghan refugee, though his true age was uncertain (variously recorded between 27 and 33). The court heard that Arab, who has a past conviction for Class A drug dealing and a charge under the Modern Slavery Act, used food, drugs, and flattery to manipulate her. He showed her videos of him assaulting others and warned her that he carried a knife, demonstrating his violent and manipulative nature. The girl recounted that Arab initially appeared caring but gradually exploited her, telling her he was the only dealer in Cardiff Central and instructing her to help him with his drug trade. He paid her attention, bought her food, and engaged in sex with her, leading to an exploitative relationship where she was given drugs and food repeatedly, and he took her around on his electric bike to facilitate his drug operations. Despite Arab's attempt to play the victim, claiming he himself was a trafficked refugee and never intended harm, the court found him to be a dangerous offender. Judge Lucy Crowther emphasized that he had manipulated the girl and warned that his actions caused significant psychological harm. Arab was sentenced to an extended nine-year prison term, including seven years in custody and two years on extended license, and was also subject to a lifelong slavery and trafficking prevention order. The police highlighted that Arab exploited a vulnerable child for profit and issued a reminder to report concerns about child exploitation.