Fugitive paedophile Hassan Mahmood arrested at Manchester Airport after fleeing UK trial
Flight-Stop: Mahmood Nabbed on Arrival
Hassan Mahmood, 23, who fled the UK midway through his child sex offences trial, has been arrested at Manchester Airport after returning to Britain. The Gigg man was caught by police last night as he landed on a flight. He faces serving a 5½-year prison sentence and is due in court today to start his term.
Found Guilty of Shocking Child Sex Crimes
In August, Mahmood was convicted of four serious offences, including:
- Engaging in penetrative sexual activity with a child
- Causing a child to watch sexual images
- Engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child
- Sexual communication with a child
Though he fled on day two of his trial, the court sentenced him in his absence. The Complex Safeguarding Team led the investigation that secured his conviction.
Detective Vows Justice and Support for Victim
“Mahmood cowardly left the country to evade punishment for his vile crimes, and I am glad he will now be behind bars where he belongs,” said Detective Constable Shaheen Saleh from the Child Criminal Exploitation Team. “We are committed to locking up those responsible for child sexual offences, and we will always ensure that they are brought to justice, no matter where they try to hide.”
DC Saleh also confirmed the victim continues to receive full support: “We remain in contact with the victim of this case and have been supporting her throughout the process.”
