Former PhD Student Jailed in UK’s First Female Genital Mutilation Conspiracy Conviction
Emad Kaky, 47, has been sentenced to four-and-a-half years behind bars after becoming the first person convicted of conspiracy to commit female genital mutilation (FGM) in England and Wales. The former PhD student was also found guilty of plotting a forced marriage during a two-week trial at Nottingham Crown Court.
Barbaric Plot to Mutilate Young Girl Exposed
Kaky arranged for a young girl to be taken from the UK to Iraq, intending for her to undergo FGM. Judge Nirmal Shant KC slammed the plan as “barbaric” during sentencing on October 3. He noted that, thankfully, the girl was unaware of the scheme and no physical harm occurred, but stressed that the case demands a strong deterrent sentence.
“You made concerted efforts to make sure this happened… What you did, what you had planned, was barbaric.” – Judge Nirmal Shant KC
Landmark Case Sends Strong Message
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) hailed the conviction as a landmark moment in tackling FGM and forced marriage. Evidence from Kaky’s mobile phone revealed messages discussing the FGM plan, which he dismissed as “normal.” Kaky had also conspired to force the girl into marriage.
Janine McKinney, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS East Midlands, said:
“This child would have suffered unimaginable physical and mental harm. This conviction is significant—not just as the first of its kind but as a warning. Those plotting these offences will be prosecuted, whether they succeed or not.”
Defence Highlights Academic Background, University Cuts Ties
During sentencing, Kaky’s barrister pointed out that no FGM took place and the victim was unaware of the plans. She also noted that losing his visiting scholar position at the University of Nottingham was already a punishment. The university confirmed it ended its association with Kaky following his arrest.
Jaswant Narwal, CPS national lead for honour-based abuse, FGM, and forced marriage, stressed the importance of deterrence:
“These crimes happen in close-knit communities where victims are often reluctant to speak out or may not even realise they are victims because it’s so normalised. We take these cases very seriously.”
This conviction marks a crucial step forward in the UK’s battle against FGM and forced marriage, showcasing that such barbaric acts will not be tolerated.
