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Nine men have been charged with a total of 41 historical sexual offences involving eight victims who were children at the time of the abuse. These men, whose ages range from 54 to 76, were detained earlier in July in various locations including Newport, Swansea, London, Birmingham, Lancashire, Edinburgh, and the Argyll and Bute area of Scotland.
The investigation, known as Operation Oak and led by Gwent Police, was launched following reports from several women about incidents of abuse that occurred in south Wales between 1985 and 1996. When the accused appeared before Newport Magistrates Court, they were informed that most of the charges were of such a serious nature that their cases would be moved to the Crown Court. All nine men, who are British nationals, were released on bail and are scheduled to appear at Cardiff Crown Court on August 21.
This operation has been characterized by law enforcement as a detailed and prolonged probe into group-based child sexual exploitation in the south Wales region. Many of the allegations include charges of rape against children. During the brief session at Newport Magistrates Court, none of the defendants entered pleas; they only confirmed their identities, birth dates, and addresses. It was also noted that one defendant participated via video link.
Among those charged, Shafaq Mohammed, 58, from Birmingham, faces multiple counts including rape and aiding the prostitution of minors and adults. Syed Mohammad Ashan Taqvi, 65, from Newport, and Mohammed Sheikh Abdul Hannan, 54, from Edinburgh, also face serious charges such as rape and indecent assault. Other defendants include Kevin Lawrence of Dunoon, Sheikh Mohammed Tahir Ullah of Newport, Aminur Rahman Chowdhury of Tottenham, Shakeel Babur of Nelson, Lancashire, Murad Ali of Swansea, and Mohammed Ramzan of Newport, each charged with various offences of rape, indecent assault, conspiracy, and involvement in the prostitution of minors.
The police highlighted that the accusations stem from eight women who allege being sexually abused over an eleven-year period. They also indicated that some charges relate to repeated instances of rape. Detective Chief Superintendent Andrew Tuck emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the court process, urging the public to avoid sharing any information that might influence proceedings. He also encouraged anyone who has experienced abuse, or suspects someone may be at risk, to come forward so that their concerns can be taken seriously and appropriate support provided
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