Manchester Man Jailed for Child Sex Abuse After Years of Silence
Ilyas Akhtar, 18, from Woodlands Road, Manchester, was sentenced to three years behind bars on Friday. He was found guilty of six counts of indecent assault at Bolton Crown Court.
Horrific Abuse Started When Victim Was Just Five
The trauma came to light after the victim, around five years old during the abuse, bravely told her partner what happened back in 2019. Akhtar began sexually touching her regularly when he was just 14. The abuse continued for five years, until she was 10.
Akhtar was arrested on March 10, 2019, and initially denied all charges. But the jury saw through his lies and delivered justice.
Detective Praises Victim’s Bravery, Issues Support Message
Detective Constable Sarah Austin of GMP’s North Manchester CID said: “I’d like to thank the victim in this case for her immense bravery in deciding to come forward and support an investigation into Akhtar after all those years.”
“The effect that sexual abuse can have upon a victim can be devastating. We need to make sure that anyone who commits these acts faces justice. I hope this sentence brings some comfort and closure.”
“To any victims of sexual abuse who haven’t yet spoken out: we can help, no matter how long ago the offence happened. We will do all we can to support you.”