PETERBOROUGH GANG LEADER CONVICTED OF HORRIFIC SEXUAL ASSAULTS
Two men and three teenage boys have been found guilty of a series of rapes and sexual assaults on young girls in Peterborough.Zdeno Mirga, aged 18, was identified as the gang's leader and was convicted along with Hassan Abdulla, aged 33, and three teenage boys.
The group targeted five girls aged 13 and 14, using 'sophisticated' grooming tactics at various locations including a children's playground and a fried chicken takeaway in Peterborough.
They were convicted at the Old Bailey of 18 counts of rape, inciting child prostitution, engaging in sexual activities with a child, and sexual assault.
The judge, John Bevan QC, noted the high costs incurred due to language barriers and praised the jury's diligence.
Mirga, known as "Skinny," was described by a victim as the gang's boss, often forcing and threatening victims to have sex and sharing one girl at parties for money to buy cannabis and vodka.
Mirga's brother Dusan, 20, and another individual were cleared of charges.
The case was part of a victim-led investigation, with police and social workers working to protect vulnerable girls.
Det Supt Gary Ridgway stated the victims were targeted because they were considered easy targets and subjected to horrific ordeals, but had shown incredible strength in testifying.
The victims' courage was commended, and efforts are ongoing to help them recover.
Social services expressed regret that the crimes were not uncovered sooner, and a serious case review has been initiated.
