Naheem Akram

Naheem Akram was a taxi driver in Rochdale and knew Mohammed Shahzad. According to the CPS, after Shahzad began exploiting Girl A when she was 13, she was taken to isolated locations and 'passed around' among taxi drivers known to him, including Akram and Nisar Hussain, who sexually assaulted and raped her. Victims in the case had been groomed with gifts and money, and frequently alcohol or drugs. At the 2025 trial, Akram initially faced a broader set of charges including 11 counts of rape, as well as conspiracy to commit indecency with a child, conspiracy to cause a child to engage in penetrative sexual activity, indecency with a child, indecent assault and assault by penetration. The jury ultimately convicted him of six counts of rape and one count of assault by penetration. He was sentenced to 26 years' imprisonment on 1 October 2025. Greater Manchester Police stated collectively that the seven convicted men had denied the allegations throughout the investigation and trial and continued to show no remorse.

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In January 2025, before the jury was sworn in, Naheem Akram, Mohammed Shahzad and Nisar Hussain were remanded in custody after their bail was revoked. The court heard that police had received intelligence indicating that the three taxi drivers, all born in Rochdale, were planning to leave the United Kingdom and had already paid a deposit for their transport. All three disputed the allegation. Judge Jonathan Seely nevertheless stated that the court was not prepared to risk their absconding as well, given that Kasir Bashir had already disappeared before his trial.

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The jury unanimously found Naheem Akram guilty of six counts of rape against Girl A.

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Accused

Akram was also convicted of one separate count of assault by penetration.

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Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court sentenced Naheem Akram to 26 years' imprisonment for the seven offences of which he was convicted.

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Greater Manchester Police charged Akram with ten offences, including rape and penetrative sexual activity with an underage girl. At his first court appearance, he indicated his intention to plead not guilty and was released on bail.

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Accused

Naheem Akram was among the taxi drivers associated with Shahzad to whom Girl A was passed and taken to isolated locations. The CPS established that Akram had sexually abused and raped her on several occasions.

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Accused