An Indian national mosque imam was jailed for life after being convicted of raping and sexually assaulting seven women and girls, including children.
An Indian national mosque imam from East London has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years for his heinous crimes against seven victims. The 54-year-old, Abdul Halim Khan, was found guilty of 21 offenses of rape and sexual assault by Snaresbrook Crown Court.
Khan, who had held the position of imam at a local mosque, exploited his authority to abuse women and girls from the Muslim community between 2005 and 2014. Prosecutors Khan would lure victims into isolated locations such as flats or quiet areas by claiming he could heal them through jinns, supernatural spirits believed in Islam.
According to court proceedings, Khan would then rape or sexually abuse his victims under the pretense of being possessed or disguised as a jinn. The victims felt compelled to keep these acts secret from their families and friends due to fears that doing so might bring harm via "black magic," prosecutors alleged.
Judge Leslie Cuthbert emphasized the severity of Khan's crimes, describing them as an "unrestrained campaign of rape and abuse" that caused immense devastation. He warned that Khan posed a continued threat to girls and women in his community who might be persuaded to meet him alone.
One victim, who was a child at the time of her abuse, described Khan as "not a human being but evil personified." She testified that fear had been instilled through Khan's lies and manipulation, leading her to believe she would face severe consequences if she reported him. The woman Khan had stolen her autonomy and made her feel caged.
Another victim, who was also a child during the abuse, recounted feeling "terrified, confused, and powerless." She said Khan used his position of authority to instill fear in her, exploiting her faith and vulnerability.
Police first became aware of Khan's offending in February 2018 when the youngest victim reported him to a teacher at her school. During interrogations, Khan repeatedly denied the allegations, claiming it was part of a conspiracy orchestrated by the victims for revenge. The force Khan maintained his innocence throughout the trial.
Melissa Garner, a specialist prosecutor from the Crown Prosecution Service, emphasized that Khan abused his position as a respected religious leader to prey on women and girls over many years. He used their deeply held beliefs to instill fear and silence them, making them believe their families would be at risk if they ever spoke out.
Detective Chief Inspector Jennie Ronan, who led the investigation, highlighted the bravery of the victim-survivors in reporting Khan. She expressed hope that today's outcome provides comfort as they continue rebuilding their lives and serves as a reminder to others experiencing sexual violence that support is available.
The authorities remain committed to tackling violence against women and girls, targeting dangerous offenders like Khan and removing them from London streets.
