ZIA UDDIN OF NEWHAM AND KINGSTON PRIMARK SCANDAL: SEXUAL ABUSE OF TEENAGE SHOPLIFTERS IN BACK ROOM

In a disturbing case that has shocked the local community, Zia Uddin, a security guard from Manor Park, Newham, has been convicted of heinous crimes involving the sexual exploitation of teenage girls at the Kingston branch of Primark. The incident, which took place in November 2019, revealed a pattern of predatory behavior by Uddin, who exploited his position of authority to manipulate vulnerable young victims.

Uddin, aged 27 at the time, was employed by Brooknight Security and assigned to oversee security at the Kingston store. The court heard how he targeted four girls, all aged 15, who had been caught shoplifting. Instead of following proper procedures, Uddin took these minors into a back-room area, where he coerced them into performing sexual acts under threats of police involvement and the risk of criminal records. The victims, in an attempt to avoid further trouble, offered to pay for the stolen items, suggested they could work in the store to make amends, or pleaded that they would never return. However, Uddin made it clear that his only interest was in engaging in sexual acts with them.

One of the victims testified that she felt she had no choice but to comply with Uddin’s demands, describing her situation as “there was no other choice,” and that it was the only way she saw to escape the predicament. The court was told that Uddin’s misconduct extended beyond these incidents; he was known to keep condoms in the control room, and he failed to properly document shoplifting reports, instead asking colleagues to delete CCTV footage to conceal his actions.

Following a thorough trial, Uddin was found guilty on November 8 of multiple serious charges, including one count of rape, three counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and one count of engaging in sexual activity in the presence of a child. The sentencing took place on Tuesday, November 19, with the court emphasizing the severity of his offenses.

Prosecutors highlighted how Uddin exploited his authority and knowledge of security procedures, including CCTV blind spots, to carry out his crimes. The victims provided compelling testimony, some of which was delivered via pre-recorded video to ensure their safety and comfort during proceedings. Evidence also revealed that Uddin had made personal phone calls to other girls involved in shoplifting incidents, suggesting a pattern of predatory behavior.

During the trial, Uddin denied the allegations, claiming that all the victims were lying and refusing to accept responsibility for his actions. His defense did not sway the court, which handed down a 14-year prison sentence. Additionally, Uddin was ordered to register as a sex offender indefinitely and was barred from working with children or vulnerable adults in the future.

Graham Partridge, representing the Crown Prosecution Service, condemned Uddin’s actions, stating, “Zia Uddin preyed on young girls in a vulnerable situation. He abused his authority by telling them to perform sexual acts for him on the promise that they would then be released without their parents or the police being informed about what they had done. Having worked in security, Uddin was also well aware of the CCTV camera ‘blind spots’ and took advantage of these in order to carry out his offending.”

The case has raised serious concerns about safeguarding and the responsibilities of security personnel, especially those entrusted with the safety of minors. The community and authorities continue to reflect on the importance of vigilance and proper oversight to prevent such abuses from occurring in the future.