Child Rapist on the Run Caught and Jailed for 24 Years
A vile child rapist who fled the UK to dodge justice has finally been locked up for 24 years. Thanks to the relentless work of the Child Abuse Investigation Unit (CAIU), Altaf Khalifa was brought to book for horrific sexual crimes against two young girls.
Four Years of Tireless Investigation
After more than four years of dogged detective work, officers uncovered the full horror of Khalifa’s abuse. The depraved acts targeted two girls aged between eight and 15, committed mainly at a Beaumont Leys address from 2016 to 2019.
Tragically, just two months after confiding in a medical professional about her ordeal, one of the young victims took her own life.
At Leicester Crown Court on 25 July, Khalifa was sentenced for 11 offences including multiple sexual assaults. Police praised both girls for their bravery in speaking out, warning that without their courage, more innocent victims could have suffered.
The Hunt for Khalifa Ends in Malaga
Khalifa went on the run while on bail in July 2021, sparking an international manhunt lasting over two years. He was eventually found living in Malaga, Spain, and extradited back to the UK in September 2023.
The 42-year-old, of no fixed address, was found guilty earlier this year of a string of offences including:
- Rape and rape of a child under 13
- Sexual assault and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
- Assault by penetration on children under 13
- Distributing indecent images and possessing extreme pornography
- Failing to disclose protected information
Police Pay Tribute to Victims’ Bravery
“The circumstances of this case are deeply tragic,” said investigating officer Vanessa Murva. “One of the girls isn’t here to see justice done, but her courage in speaking out first alerted us to Khalifa’s crimes. Without them, he might still be free to offend.”
Detective Sergeant Kate Beel added: “This case was especially harrowing because one of the victims died by suicide. Both girls showed immense bravery in coming forward and their families’ support was crucial in securing Khalifa’s conviction.”
Khalifa will spend 24 years behind bars and must register as a sex offender for life. Police vowed he will cause no further harm.
