ZACKRIYA SHABIR AND TAJ SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE IN KEIGHLEY AND SKIPTON

In a disturbing case that has shocked the communities of Keighley and Skipton, three men were convicted and sentenced for their involvement in the sexual abuse of a young girl. The case, which unfolded over several years, revealed a pattern of manipulation, exploitation, and callous disregard for the victim's well-being.

Mohammed Zackriya, now 40, originally from Hawk Street, Keighley, was among those convicted. He was sentenced to eight years in prison for oral rape and five additional charges of sexual activity with a minor. It was revealed during the trial that Zackriya, who was 21 at the time of the offenses, had targeted the girl, who was only 14 years old, and had engaged in sexual acts with her shortly after their first meeting. The court heard that Zackriya had supplied her with cannabis, alcohol, and cigarettes, effectively grooming her for abuse. Judge Peter Benson described him as cunning and manipulative beyond his years, emphasizing the calculated nature of his actions.

The victim, a girl from the Skipton area, recounted to police how Zackriya had brainwashed her, describing him as evil. She expressed feelings of betrayal and disgust, revealing that she was coerced into sexual activity under the influence of drugs and alcohol provided by Zackriya. Despite his criminal actions, Zackriya has since returned to work at Caesars Takeaway Restaurant located on Newmarket Street in Skipton, where he now disguises himself with a black hairpiece.

Another defendant, Mohammed Shabir, aged 36 and a father of five, also from Keighley, received a five-year prison sentence for three counts of engaging in sexual activity with the girl at Caesars Takeaway in Skipton. Known locally as 'Shabby' and noted for wearing a wig, Shabir was 18 years older than the victim when she first entered the establishment while still in her school uniform. The court heard that Shabir had provided her with cigarettes and food, using endearments to tempt her into a relationship. The judge highlighted that Shabir's actions were driven by a desire for gratification, and he further received an additional six months for contempt of court after shouting threats and racial abuse at a witness during the trial.

Mohammed Taj, aged 37 from Broughton Road, Skipton, was sentenced to five years for three counts of sexual activity with the girl in his car. The court noted that each of these men saw the opportunity to exploit a vulnerable young girl for their own gratification, displaying a disturbing level of hypocrisy and callousness. During the proceedings, the girl was subjected to intense cross-examination, revealing the extent of her trauma and the manipulative tactics employed by the defendants.

Following the verdicts, Detective Inspector Pete Martin expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, acknowledging the complexity of the investigation. He paid tribute to the victim, emphasizing her bravery in coming forward and seeking justice despite the trauma she endured. Inspector Martin also highlighted the importance of encouraging other victims to report abuse, stressing that sexual grooming and trafficking are heinous crimes that can affect anyone, regardless of background. The case has left a lasting impact on the small towns of Keighley and Skipton, where community members are reminded of the importance of vigilance and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation.