A Tower Hamlets councillor has been charged with attempting to pervert the course of justice in connection with an ongoing rape investigation.
Abdul Malik, 50, a councillor for Blackwall and Cubitt Town representing the ruling Aspire Party, stands accused of interfering with a police investigation into the alleged rape of a 16-year-old girl.
The charge, first listed at Thames Magistrates’ Court last week, alleges that on January 23, Cllr Malik “contacted the father of a 16-year-old complainant of rape and told him to get his daughter to drop the charges against the male alleged to have raped her and get him out of custody.”
Upcoming Court Appearance
The case has been escalated to Snaresbrook Crown Court for a plea hearing scheduled on March 14. Cllr Malik, who resides on Mercury Walk in Poplar, has not yet entered a plea.
Cllr Malik’s Role in Tower Hamlets
Abdul Malik has been elected as a councillor in Tower Hamlets three times — in 2010, 2018, and most recently in 2022. He currently serves as the Chair of the Council’s Human Resources Committee and holds a position on the Licensing Committee. Outside of his council duties, Malik is listed as a director of Castalia Food and Grocery Store on the Isle of Dogs.
Given his prominent role within the local government, questions have arisen regarding his continued participation in council affairs amid these serious allegations.
Council’s Response
When approached for comment on whether Cllr Malik remains active in his duties or if any interim measures have been put in place, Tower Hamlets Council responded:
“Due to legal proceedings being active, we are unable to comment on the case.”
Notably, the council declined to provide clarity on Cllr Malik’s current responsibilities, despite no request for comment on the specific legal case itself.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The news has sent shockwaves through the Tower Hamlets community, where concerns over the integrity of public officials have been mounting. Residents have called for transparency and swift action should the allegations be substantiated.
Legal experts highlight that charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice carry serious implications, including potential custodial sentences if found guilty.
As the plea hearing approaches, The Sentinel Current will continue to provide updates on the legal proceedings and any developments regarding Cllr Malik’s status within Tower Hamlets Council.
What’s Next?
- Plea Hearing: March 14 at Snaresbrook Crown Court
- Potential Outcomes: Depending on the plea, the case could proceed to a full trial or be resolved through legal agreements.
- Council’s Position: Awaiting further legal developments before making any decisions regarding Cllr Malik’s council roles.
