SIRAJ PATEL FROM LANCASTER FACES JAIL AND SHOP CLOSURE OVER SEX OFFENCES AND IMMIGRATION VIOLATIONS

In a significant case that has garnered considerable attention in Lancaster, Siraj Patel, aged 49, of Dallas Road, was convicted of serious criminal offences involving a minor. The verdict was delivered at Preston Crown Court last November, where Patel was found guilty of engaging in four separate instances of sexual activity with a girl under the age of 16. Additionally, he was convicted of one count of sexual grooming, a crime that involves establishing a relationship with a minor with the intent to facilitate sexual abuse.

Following his conviction, Patel was sentenced in December 2016 to a prison term of four years. The court's decision reflected the gravity of his actions, which were committed against a 15-year-old girl. As part of the sentencing, the court also imposed a sexual harm prevention order to restrict his activities and prevent further offences. Furthermore, Patel was placed on the sex offenders register indefinitely, ensuring ongoing monitoring of his activities.

In addition to his criminal convictions, authorities took action against Patel's business operations. In July of the previous year, police and immigration officials conducted a raid on Mognies takeaway, a local establishment associated with Patel. During the operation, they discovered three individuals from India residing illegally above the premises in a single room. All three individuals were promptly arrested, highlighting ongoing concerns about illegal immigration and employment practices linked to the establishment.

In light of these findings, authorities are now pushing for the closure of Mognies takeaway, aiming to prevent further illegal activities and protect the community. The case underscores the serious nature of the offences committed by Siraj Patel and the broader issues of illegal immigration and exploitation that continue to challenge law enforcement agencies in Lancaster.