An Afghan asylum seeker has been sentenced to 15 years in jail for abducting, raping, and sexually assaulting a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton, Warwickshire. Ahmad Mulakhil, aged 23, showed no remorse as the victim described the horrifying incident that took place last summer.
Mulakhil, during a trial at Warwick Crown Court, was found guilty of rape, two counts of sexual assault, child abduction, and taking an indecent video of the girl near a residential area. Despite admitting a second rape charge before the trial, his actions sparked widespread outrage and protests in the local community.
Judge Kristina Montgomery KC, passing the sentence, highlighted the lasting trauma and medical issues the victim continues to endure due to Mulakhil’s crimes. The judge emphasized the victim’s vulnerability and the significant psychological harm she suffered as a result.
The court heard that Mulakhil targeted the victim, leaving her distressed and alone in a park after the attack. The victim immediately reported the assault, underwent medical examinations, and faced questioning by the police and in court as Mulakhil denied the allegations.
Mulakhil was sentenced to 15 years in prison with an additional 12 months on licence. Despite his lack of emotion during the hearing, it was revealed that he had fled Afghanistan at 22 due to threats from the Taliban, seeking asylum in the UK.
During the trial, Mulakhil claimed the victim had initiated the encounter and lied about her age. He stood trial alongside Mohammad Kabir, another Afghan asylum seeker, who was acquitted of related charges. The victim, whose identity remains protected, recounted being approached by both defendants in a park after playing on swings.
