Rochdale Grooming Gang ‘Boss Man’ Jailed for 35 Years
The ringleader of a horrific Rochdale grooming gang has been locked up for 35 years. Mohammed Zahid, 64, known as the “Boss Man,” controlled the vile operation, abusing two teenage girls as “sex slaves.” He ran a market stall that became ground zero for much of the sickening abuse.
The court heard the gang forced sex on their victims everywhere – grim flats, cars, alleyways, warehouses, even filthy mattresses.
Hard Hitting Sentences for Grooming Gang Members
- Mohammed Zahid, 64 – 35 years for 20 offences including rape and indecent assault on children.
- Kasir Bashir, 50 – 29 years, convicted in absentia after fleeing before the trial.
- Mushtaq Ahmed, 67 – 27 years for multiple sexual offences including rape.
- Roheez Khan, 39 – 12 years for one count of rape.
Three more gang members – Mohammed Shahzad, Nisar Hussain, and Naheem Akram – face sentencing soon after guilty verdicts for serious sexual crimes.
Victims Reveal Life-Shattering Abuse
“My life has been destroyed from the abuse of these men. It’s affected everything – my looks, relationships, health, and mental wellbeing,” one victim told the court.
The abuse began when the girls were just 13. One victim revealed how Zahid felt “almost untouchable,” using his market stall as a grooming hub. Despite multiple reports to care homes and social services, no action was taken for years.
Brave Victims Call for Justice and Help
“If you’re ready, don’t wait. Go to the CSE team – they will help. Watching today’s verdict changed my life. I can now live without shame,” said Girl B, delivering a powerful victim statement.
The four-month trial ended with unanimous guilty verdicts on 50 sexual offences committed between 2001 and 2006. The case exposes shocking failures in protection but highlights the bravery of victims fighting back.
