Abdul Halim Khan, an imam who exploited his respected position as a faith leader to rape and sexually assault women and girls, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years. The 54-year-old Indian national, from Old Forde Road, east London, committed his crimes over a nine-year period between 2005 and 2014, Snaresbrook Crown Court heard.
Abuse of Trust and Supernatural Claims
Khan, who served as an imam at a mosque, systematically lured his victims into isolated locations, including private flats and secluded spots. Prosecutors revealed that he would then rape or sexually abuse them under the guise of being possessed by or disguised as a jinn, a supernatural spirit. Victims were coerced into silence, fearing that speaking out would bring harm to their families through black magic.
Judge's Condemnation
Sentencing Khan, Judge Leslie Cuthbert condemned his actions, stating: "Behind a public appearance of propriety and holiness you took monstrous advantage of women who trusted you, all for your own sexual satisfaction. You brazenly raped and sexually assaulted seven females – both children and young women. You behaved as if you were untouchable." The judge added that Khan's criminality was an "unrestrained campaign of rape and abuse of women and girls" and described him as a "serial rapist and child abuser". He warned that Khan continues to represent a grave danger to women and girls, especially as some community members still hold him in high esteem.
Victim Impact Statements
One victim, who was a child when the abuse occurred, tearfully told the court: "To me, Khan is not a human being, he is evil personified." She explained that Khan instilled fear through lies and manipulation, hiding under the guise of a religious man. Another victim, also a child at the time, stated she was left "terrified, confused and powerless," adding that Khan exploited his authority to terrorise her.
Investigation and Conviction
Police first became aware of Khan's offending in February 2018 when the youngest victim reported him to a teacher at her school. During interviews, Khan denied the allegations, claiming they were part of a conspiracy. He was found guilty in February of nine counts of rape, four counts of sexual assault, two counts of sexual assault of a child under 13, five counts of rape of a child under 13, and one count of assault by penetration.
Prosecutor and Police Comments
Melissa Garner, a specialist prosecutor at the Crown Prosecution Service, said: "Abdul Halim Khan abused his position as a trusted religious leader to prey on women and girls over many years, manipulating and controlling them for his own sexual gratification." Detective Chief Inspector Jennie Ronan, who led the investigation, praised the victim-survivors for their bravery and stressed the commitment to tackling violence against women and girls.
