'Sex abuse' trial told that there is 'real doubt' surrounding allegations

HERE were claims that there is "real doubt" in the case and that a “dreadful mistake” had been made as defence closing speeches concluded in the Rochdale sex abuse trial.

- BY ANDREW BARDSLEY

Seven men are on trial at Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester. The two alleged victims, who cannot be named for legal reasons, claim they were sexually abused in the town between 2001 and 2006. The complainants, identified as Girl A and Girl B, both gave evidence in court during the trial.

Jurors have heard the seven defendants were mainly either taxi drivers or market stall traders in the town. The girls were “passed around” for sex before being “discarded”, it is alleged. The defendants deny all allegations.

Mohammed Zahid, 64; Kasir Bashir, 50; Mushtaq Ahmed, 66; Roheez Khan, 39; Mohammed Shahzad, 43; Nisar Hussain, 43; and Naheem Akram, 48, deny all the charges they face.

The penultimate closing speech was made by Gemma Maxwell on behalf of Nisar Hussain. He is accused of the rape of Girl A on a “joint enterprise” basis. Ms Maxwell pointed out that he is not accused of having any sexual contact with Girl A.

Prosecutors claim he is guilty of the offence because he allegedly filmed Girl A being sexually abused by Mr Shahzad and Mr Akram, after driving the two men and Girl A to a quiet road. Both men deny this. The prosecution also claim she was raped by Mr Shahzad and Mr Akram under threat of the video being circulated, which they both deny.

Ms Maxwell said of Mr Hussain: "If he was in on it, why not engage with her sexually?