Waseem Ullah, a 28-year-old from Breightmet, has been sentenced to six years in prison for a series of sexual offenses, including the sexual assault of an underage girl whom he had lured through social media. The events leading to his conviction began in June of this year when the police received a report of a missing girl. In a chilling twist, Ullah picked her up after she was reported missing, subsequently driving her around Bolton. He then ventured toward the moors in Darwen, where he committed the horrific crime of sexually assaulting her in the back of his car.
The police investigation revealed that Ullah had communicated with the victim through social media, enticing her with offers of money for companionship. He proposed payment structures that were disturbingly exploitative, offering £20 for an hour and £40 for two hours of her time. Despite the victim’s clear statements that she was underage and did not wish to meet him, Ullah’s persistence was alarming. He attempted to manipulate her by saying things like, “See me sometimes, and I pay you, and you can get stuff with it.” Such predatory language highlights not only his intentions but also the insidious ways offenders can exploit vulnerable young individuals.
As the investigation unfolded, the victim described her experiences to the police, detailing how Ullah had sent her sexually explicit messages requesting explicit photographs. This alarming correspondence came to light in May 2022 after the victim’s mother stumbled upon the messages and promptly reported the situation to law enforcement. As a result, Ullah was arrested, but even after being bailed, he continued to flout court restrictions. This disregard for legal boundaries would ultimately lead him to commit further crimes.
In a crucial development, Ullah utilized a false identity on social media to arrange a meeting with the girl who went missing in June. Such deceit illustrates his calculated approach to pursuing young girls, reinforcing the need for vigilance around online interactions, especially for minors. It was during this meeting that Ullah would go on to sexually assault the girl near Darwen, an act that left an indelible mark on her life.
Thanks to the diligent work of specialist officers, the young victim was able to share her story and provide them with critical information about her interactions with Ullah. The evidence gathered, particularly the contact details she had provided, pointed directly to Ullah. It was this pivotal moment that led law enforcement to unearth his true identity and establish a solid case against him.
On June 9, officers spotted Ullah driving in Bolton. He was seen emptying and cleaning his car, which raised suspicions and ultimately led to his arrest. Law enforcement officials acted swiftly, ensuring that Ullah would not have the opportunity to evade justice or further harm any other victims. Upon his arrest, he was charged with several offenses, including causing a female aged 13 or over to engage in non-penetrative sexual activity, two counts of sexual assault, engaging in sexual communication with a child, and breaching court bail conditions.
At first, Ullah denied the charges against him, adamant in his claims of innocence. However, as the evidence against him mounted, he ultimately chose to change his plea to guilty for the charges related to the non-penetrative sexual activity and other sexual offenses. His shift from denial to admission signifies not only his acknowledgment of wrongdoing but also the relentless pursuit of justice by the authorities. The considerable body of evidence provided by the police was instrumental in leading him to this conclusion, highlighting the importance of thorough investigative work in cases of this nature.
The case culminated in a hearing at Bolton Crown Court, where Ullah was sentenced to six years in prison. This sentence was accompanied by a four-year extension, reflecting the severity of his actions and the enduring impact they would have on his victims. The court’s decision to impose a lengthy sentence serves as a powerful message about the ramifications of such criminal behavior, particularly towards vulnerable young individuals.
In the wake of the hearing, PC Becky Greenwood, a member of the Bolton Complex Safeguarding Team, addressed the court, commenting on Ullah’s apparent lack of remorse for his actions. “Waseem Ullah showed no remorse for his behavior and denied his criminality until he was faced with indisputable evidence,” Greenwood stated. Her comments underscore the psychological complexities often present in cases involving sexual offenders, where denial and minimization of responsibility can obstruct the healing process for victims and prolong their trauma.
Greenwood further emphasized the persistence with which Ullah attempted to exploit his victims, noting the bravery of the young girls who spoke to authorities. “I would like to thank the girls who spoke to us and bravely disclosed Ullah’s depraved behavior,” she remarked. The courage these survivors exhibited in coming forward is commendable, as it not only contributed to Ullah’s conviction but also serves as a beacon of hope to others who may find themselves in similar situations.
While the legal consequences faced by Ullah provide a measure of justice, PC Greenwood acknowledged the ongoing effects of his actions, stating, “We know that this sentence goes no way to make up for what Ullah subjected them to, but we hope they can draw some comfort from the fact he is now behind bars.” Statements like these highlight the essential role law enforcement plays in supporting victims after the fact, ensuring they are not left to cope with the aftermath of their trauma alone.
This case also emphasizes a broader societal issue concerning the safeguarding of young people in an increasingly digital world. With the internet providing a platform for communication and connection, it has also exposed vulnerabilities and risks, particularly for minors. The predatory nature of Ullah’s actions serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of teaching children about online safety, consent, and awareness of the potential dangers lurking in digital spaces.
The chilling reality remains that offenders like Ullah exist within the community, and vigilance is required to protect young individuals from harm. Families must foster open lines of communication with their children, encouraging them to speak about their experiences online and to recognize inappropriate behavior. Schools and community organizations also have critical roles to play in raising awareness and providing education on the subject, empowering young people to navigate conversations around consent and personal safety.
Furthermore, the institutional response to such cases must continue to evolve. As communities grow increasingly aware of the prevalence of sexual offenses, it is essential that law enforcement and safeguarding services work collaboratively. Information-sharing between agencies can greatly enhance the effectiveness of investigations and the protection of potential victims. Additionally, support networks must be readily available for survivors, ensuring they have access to counseling, advocacy, and resources tailored to their unique needs.
In conclusion, the case of Waseem Ullah highlights an alarming reality concerning the exploitation of young individuals, necessitating a concerted effort from families, law enforcement, and support organizations. Through collaboration and proactive measures, society can work towards preventing such crimes from occurring in the future while supporting those affected by such reprehensible acts. The journey toward healing for survivors can be lengthy, but through courage, advocacy, legal accountability, and community support, meaningful progress can be made in the pursuit of justice and safety for all young people.