Victim's Plea for National Inquiry into Scottish Grooming Gangs
A woman who says she was sexually exploited as a child by a grooming gang in Glasgow has written a powerful letter to Scotland's First Minister, John Swinney, demanding he launch a national inquiry. The victim, who uses the pseudonym Taylor, was just 13 years old and in the care system when she was targeted.
Details of the Alleged Abuse
In her letter, Taylor describes how she became the target of what she identifies as a 'Pakistani grooming gang' operating from flats in the Govanhill and Rutherglen areas of Glasgow. She explains that the abuse began deceptively, with the men appearing friendly, offering lifts, gifts, and attention. This quickly escalated into severe child sexual exploitation.
Taylor and her friends were plied with alcohol and drugs before being sexually abused by multiple men. She states that at least 10 Pakistani men were responsible for the abuse and exploitation she and her friends endured. Another girl in her care unit reportedly believed she was in a relationship with one of the perpetrators.
Systemic Failures and Calls for Action
Now in her twenties, Taylor decided to come forward after discovering 'upsetting information' within her old care records. She had initially believed that the care home, police, and social services were unaware of the abuse, but her records suggested otherwise. Her subsequent complaints to First Minister John Swinney and Police Scotland in September 2025 resulted in what she describes as 'dismissive replies'.
She expressed being 'deeply disappointed' with the response, feeling her complaint was not taken seriously. This has led her to publicly demand a rapid audit and a full public inquiry into grooming gangs in Scotland. Taylor insists that it is 'clear' such abuse is still happening and that vulnerable children remain at risk, underscoring the urgent need for action.
The Scottish Conservatives have backed her call, with Tory leader Russell Findlay stating that the 'powerful letter should shame John Swinney into doing the right thing'. He accused the First Minister of needing to stop making excuses and listen to victims who were failed by the authorities.
In response, Natalie Don-Innes, the Minister for Children and Young People, thanked Taylor for her courage. She stated that the Scottish Government is prepared to consider an independent public inquiry 'should it be deemed necessary' and pointed to the ongoing work of the National Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Strategic Group.
Police Scotland confirmed a complaint was received but clarified that as no specific crime was reported at the time, it did not meet their formal criteria. They have encouraged Taylor to make a formal report, assuring that any such report would be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.
