An Afghan man has pleaded guilty to raping a 12-year-old girl in Nuneaton, shaking the local community and stirring political debate over immigration and child safety.
Guilty Plea in Warwick Crown Court
Ahmad Mulakhil, 23, of no fixed address, shockingly changed his plea during a Warwick Crown Court hearing on November 21, 2025. He admitted one count of raping a child under 13, relating to a terrifying incident on July 22 in the Cheveral Street area of Nuneaton between 8:30 and 9:45 p.m. However, Mulakhil still denies five other charges including additional rapes, sexual assaults, and child abduction.
His co-defendant, Mohammad Kabir, also 23 and Afghan, denies all charges against him—ranging from attempted child abduction to aiding and abetting rape and intentional strangulation.
Both men, recent arrivals to the UK, required interpreters during the trial. Judge Kristina Montgomery KC continues to oversee the case as Mulakhil remains in custody and Kabir is out on bail awaiting trial.
Police and Community Response
Warwickshire Police launched an intense investigation after Mulakhil’s arrest in July 2025. Officers worked “around the clock” to support the young victim and bring the suspects to justice. A spokesperson called the crime “truly horrific” and reaffirmed their commitment to protecting vulnerable children.
The Cheveral Street neighbourhood, where the offence occurred, has since been under close watch amid fears over child safety.
Political Fallout and Public Unrest
The case stirred controversy when police withheld the defendants’ nationalities pending charges, sparking claims of a “cover-up” from figures like Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Warwickshire Council leader George Finch. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper responded by demanding greater transparency, leading to updated police guidelines allowing nationality disclosures post-charge in high-profile cases.
The allegations sparked a fiery protest outside Nuneaton Town Hall on August 9, 2025. Far-right demonstrators waved St George’s Cross and Union flags, chanting anti-immigration slogans like “Stop the boats,” with reports of Nazi imagery. They were outnumbered by Stand Up to Racism counter-protesters, highlighting deep divisions in the community.
Looking Ahead: Trial and Broader Issues
- A pre-trial hearing is set for December 12, 2025, at Warwick Crown Court to discuss remaining charges.
- The full trial, including Kabir’s contested allegations, begins January 26, 2026.
- Mulakhil faces sentencing for his admitted rape after the trial concludes.
The case has become a lightning rod in heated debates about immigration, asylum-seeker vetting, and child protection. Police confirmed Mulakhil arrived in Britain via a small boat crossing, fueling ongoing political tension.
Meanwhile, survivors’ support services continue aiding the traumatised 12-year-old, whose identity remains protected.
As the trial approaches, questions loom over how such crimes can be prevented and how communities can better integrate newcomers while safeguarding children.
